Simpler Rules: Rule 28

Rule 28: Ball Unplayable 

The player is the sole judge as to whether his ball is unplayable and may deem his ball unplayable at any place on the course, except when the ball is in a water hazard. 

If the player deems his ball to be unplayable, he must, under penalty of one stroke: 

(a)     Proceed in accordance with the procedure for playing from the place last played; or  

(b)     Place a ball behind the point where the ball lay, keeping that point directly between the hole and the spot on which the ball is placed, with no limit to how far behind that point the ball may be placed; or  

(c)     Proceed in accordance with the procedure for taking relief.  

If the unplayable ball is in a bunker and the player elects to proceed in accordance with Clause b or c, a ball must be placed in the bunker. 

When proceeding under this Rule, the player may lift and clean his ball or substitute a ball. 

PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:

Match play – Loss of hole; Stroke play – Two strokes.