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Heading out for a round of Golf? 5 Etiquette Tips you must know

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Nobody wants to feel rushed or uncomfortable during their time at the course. Golf is played without the supervision of a referee. By being a courteous and respectful player everyone will enjoy the spirit of the game.

By following these 5 simple rules you will be welcomed by any foursome:

  1. Know the Dress Code – Each facility has different expectations for their guests. Take a few minutes to read the dress code on their website before heading out. Acceptable Attire for most clubs would require:
    • Soft spiked golf or running shoes with socks
    • Slacks, bermuda length shorts, capris, golf skorts or skirts
    • Collared golf shirts, mocks or tailored tees without any large logos; Women’s sleeveless shirts must have a collar
    • Jeans, tanks or cutoffs are not permitted anytime 
  2. Arrive Early – Give yourself time to check in at the pro shop or starter, change your shoes, stretch or buy water. All players need to be ready to tee off at their scheduled tee time. Remember to apply sunscreen and/or bug spray before you head out. The night before:

    Pack your golf bag – ensure you have all of your clubs, a good selection of balls, tees, gloves, ball markers and a ball mark repair tool

    A chance of rain? Pack rain gear, umbrella, extra towels and bag cover

  3. Care for the Course – We should do our best to leave the course in the condition we found it so others can enjoy it.
    • Replace any divots taken throughout the course
    • Fix ball marks on the greens and any others that you see
    •  Pick up any litter
    • Know the golf cart rules for the day; carts may be restricted to the cart paths or rough. The marshal or pro shop attendant should inform you before you start
    • Smooth any holes or footprints as you leave the bunker and leave the rakes outside. Rocks and pebbles can be removed without penalty
  4. Respect for other Players – Take time to get to know your playing partners. However, you should always talk while you walk so you don’t hold up play or disrupt a player’s swing.
    • Make sure nobody is around you when you take a swing. Make it a habit of standing on the side where the player’s head is at address, slightly behind and away from the player
    • Always yell “Fore!” when you have hit a ball that may strike players in your group or on another fairway
    • Watch where your partner’s balls go
    • Never hit your ball until the group ahead is out of range
    • Cell phone ringers should be off. If you must check messages do it while you are walking to the next tee
    • Always shake hands and thank them for the game after you exit the last green
    • Cancel your tee time within a reasonable amount of time (at least 24 hours, as there may be charges)
  5. Play Ready Golf – It can be frustrating to play behind a slow group. By keeping up with the group ahead of you and being ready to play when you reach your ball are important to stay on pace.
    • The player who has the honor should be allowed to play first, if they are ready
    • It is reasonable to take one practice swing before each shot
    • After making a stop at the canteen or washroom move on to the next tee
    • Mark your score when you get to the next tee
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