Introduction of Local Rule E-2 (Cleaning ball) from 30th October 2025
The current wet conditions are causing mud to stick to the ball on contact with the ground.
Under Local Rule E-3 (Preferred lies) you can currently obtain free relief when your ball lands on the fairway or fringe of putting greens. However, no such relief is available currently if your ball lands in the general area, not cut to fairway height (ie, the rough) and has gathered mud.
The Committee have now agreed to introduce, from 30th October 2025, Local Rule E-2 (Cleaning ball) due to course conditions. This allows players to mark, lift, clean and replace their ball on its original spot if it lands in the general area, not cut to fairway height or less.
Note:
The general area is all areas of the course except for the teeing area and putting area of the hole being played, penalty areas and bunkers.
Local Rule E-2 (Cleaning ball)
“When a player’s ball lies in the general area, that is not cut to fairway height or less, the ball may be lifted, cleaned and **replaced** without penalty.
The player must mark the spot of the ball before lifting it (see Rule 14.1) and the ball must be replaced on its original spot (see Rule 14.2).
Penalty for Playing Ball from a Wrong Place in Breach of Local Rule: General Penalty Under Rule 14.7a.”
Note:
This Local rule allows you to clean your ball and replace it on its original spot. It does not allow you to move it from where it landed.
Acceptable Scores
Scores are acceptable for handicapping purposes when Local Rules E-2 (Cleaning ball) and E-3 (Preferred lies) are in place.
Secretary
Bromsgrove Golf Club
27 October 2025