Firstly to correct a common misunderstanding, tyre and tractor marks in the General Area are not an Abnormal Course Condition and normally not eligible for free relief – play it as it lies is the rule.

Under Winter Rules there is some relief with the lift, clean and place within 6 inches Local Rule.

However the Committee have decided, with all the ongoing maintenance work and the inclement weather, to introduce a temporary Local Rule to provide full relief for non-qualifying rounds.

From 1st October 2024, for non-qualifying rounds only:

Hart Common Winter Local Rule 2024

Track and tyre marks made by maintenance vehicles in the General Area (not Penalty areas) are considered an Abnormal Course Condition and free relief is allowed under Rule 16.1 until further notice.

Remember for qualifying rounds the above does NOT apply, the Winter Local Rule is:
When a player's ball lies in a part of the General Area cut to fairway height or less, the player may take free relief by lifting, cleaning and placing the ball within 6 inches. In proceeding under this Local Rule, the player must choose a spot to place the ball and use the procedures for replacing a ball under Rules 14.2b(2) and 14.2e.

Chris Fearn
Handicap Secretary
Hart Common Golf Club
handicaps@hartcommongolfclub.co.uk