The Course > Putting Greens

• Definition: Putting Green
• The putting green is an area specifically prepared for putting. Definition
• Almost all damage to the putting green (not natural imperfections or aeration holes) can be repaired prior to any shot. 13.1c  
• Dew, frost, and water may not be removed from the putting green or the hole. Loose Impediment  
• There is no penalty for accidentally moving a ball or ball-marker on the putting green. The ball or ball-marker must be replaced. 9.7b Exception
• When a ball on the putting green moves after it has been lifted and replaced, it must be replaced without penalty. 9.3 Exception  
• Interference from a wrong green occurs from stance, intended swing, or ball. Relief must be taken. 13.1f(1)  
• The ball may strike a flagstick left in the hole, a removed flag, or the person attending the flag if accidental without penalty. The ball is played as it lies. 13.2a(2) and 13.2b(2)
• When a ball played from the putting green strikes an obstruction (including any player's equipment) that is on the putting green, the shot is cancelled and replayed without penalty. 11.b Exception 2  
• The line of play may be touched for repair or in pointing out the line of play. 10.2b(2)
• A player's caddie or partner must not stand behind the player to assist in lining up their putt. 10.2b(4)  
• A player must not set anything down on or off the putting green to indicate the line of play. The penalty is immediate. 10.2b(3)  
• An opponent or another player (not partner) may stand behind the player while the player is putting but it is not proper etiquette.
• A player may lift their ball on the putting green while another ball is in motion to prevent it from being hit. 11.3 Exception
• See Situations > Deflected, Situations > Ball Holed for more information regarding actions on the putting green.