Model Local Rule E-12: Use of Mats The Committee have decided that Model Local Rule E-12 will be in effect, until further notice. “When a player’s ball lies in a part of the general area cut to fairway height or less, and a putter is not being used for the stroke, the player must take free relief by lifting the original ball and placing the original ball or another ball on an artificial mat and playing it from there.” Mats are not allowed in rough, bunkers, penalty areas or greens. When putting from the green fringe a mat is not required. Procedure: – The mat must be placed on top of the spot where the ball came to rest. – If the ball, when placed, rolls off the mat, the player must try to place it a second time. – If the ball again does not stay on the mat, move the mat to the nearest spot, not nearer the hole, where the ball will come to rest when placed. – If the ball on the mat is accidentally moved before a stroke is made, there is no penalty, and the ball must be replaced on the mat. – If a tee is used to secure the mat, the ball must not be placed on the tee.