Can you remove loose impediments in a bunker?
By The Fairway Labs TeamReviewed
Bunkers
Penalty: None
Can you remove loose impediments in a bunker?
PenaltyNone· under Rule 12
What to do
- 1Pick up sticks, leaves, stones, or other natural loose impediments freely.
- 2Avoid pressing down or smoothing the sand while removing them.
- 3Be careful not to move your ball; if it does move, replace it with no penalty as long as you were not otherwise in breach.
Based on the modern Rules of Golf (Rule 12), as published by the USGA and The R&A and effective from the 2019 revision. Local rules can modify some situations — check the scorecard or with the committee when in doubt.
Related rulings
Get better at golf, one email at a time
Join the newsletter for new beginner guides, honest gear reviews, and tips that actually lower your scores. No spam, ever.