One of the central principles of golf is to play the ball as it lies. Therefore, if your ball at rest is moved, you must generally replace the ball. Whether or not a penalty applies depends on who moved the ball, how it was moved, and where on the course the movement happened. If the ball is moved by another player in stroke play or by anyone while searching for it, there is no penalty. However, when not searching, you are expected to be careful around your ball and will usually get a one-stroke penalty if you cause it to move. However, the putting green is a special case where there is no penalty for any accidental movement of a ball by the player or anyone else. In match play, if your ball is moved by your opponent (other than on the putting green or during search), the opponent will usually get a one-stroke penalty.
What if an Animal Moved My Ball? Or it Hits a Spectator? How About if the Wind Moves My Ball?
If your ball is moved by an outside influence, such as an animal or a spectator, there is no penalty to anyone and the ball must be replaced. If your ball is moved by a natural force, such as wind, water, or gravity, you will usually play the ball from its new location without penalty.
When your ball in motion is accidentally deflected or stopped, there is no penalty and you will normally play the ball from wherever it lies. This includes when your ball accidentally strikes your body or your equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions—Ball Moved or Deflected
Q: I accidentally caused my ball to move on the putting green. Do I need to replace it?
A: Yes, you should replace your ball to its original position. There is no penalty for accidental movement of the ball by you or anyone else on the putting green.
Q: The wind moved my ball on the putting green. Should I replace it?
A: No, if the wind or another natural force moves your ball, simply play it from its new position—no replacement or penalty is required.
Q: I accidentally moved my ball-marker. What should I do?
A: Restore the marker (and subsequently your ball) to its original spot. There is no penalty for accidental movement of your ball-marker.
