The teeing area is where each hole in golf begins, and where the first shot is played. Understanding the rules for the teeing area is crucial to avoid penalty strokes and ensure a fair start to the hole.
Definition of the teeing area
The teeing area is the area from which you must play your first shot on the hole. It is defined by two tee markers (often small blocks or balls), and the area extends two club lengths back from the line between the markers.
The difference between red and yellow tee markers
- Red tee – often used as a forward start, typically for women, juniors, or players who want a shorter course.
- Yellow tee – standard or club tee for men in many clubs.
Some courses also have white, blue, or black tees, which are used for tournaments or to give the course maximum length.
Rules for setup
When you are playing from the teeing area, the ball must be placed within the marked area:
- The ball can be placed on the ground or on a tee (up to 101.6 mm high).
- Any part of the ball can touch the boundary – it is still inside.
- You may stand outside the area, as long as the ball is placed inside.
What you may do on the teeing area
- Clean and inspect the area where you want to place the ball.
- Remove small stones, twigs, or other loose impediments (loose natural objects).
- Use a tee to elevate the ball.
- Move the ball to another spot within the area before you play, without penalty.
What you may not do
- Place the ball outside the teeing area – this results in two penalty strokes in stroke play and allows the opponent to require a replay in match play.
- Deliberately alter the ground in a way that gives an unreasonable advantage (e.g., pounding the ground hard behind the ball).
- Use a tee that is higher than allowed or does not meet the rules.
Special situations
If the ball falls off the tee before the shot, without you having tried to hit it, you may simply tee it up again without penalty. If, on the other hand, you have attempted to hit the ball, it counts as a stroke – even if you miss.
Penalties for rule violations
- Stroke play: Two penalty strokes and the ball must be correctly replaced.
- Match play: The opponent may require the shot to be replayed.
Summary
The teeing area is the starting point for each hole, and correct use of it is fundamental for fair play. By knowing the rules for setup, permitted actions, and possible penalties, you can avoid unnecessary mistakes and start the hole with confidence.
