Accidental Movement of a Ball

Ball Accidentally Moved During Search

Rule 7.4 - There is no penalty if the player's ball is accidentally moved by the player, opponent, or anyone else while trying to find or identify it. 

What You Need to Know

1. The ball MUST be replaced on its original spot (if not known must be estimated)
   
   • This includes when the ball was resting on, under or against any obstruction or growing thing. The ball must be replaced against such object. 
     
     
2. Ball covered by sand
   • If the player finds there ball covered in sand, the original lie must be re-created and the ball must be replaced in that lie. BUT the player may leave a small part of the ball visible when doing so. 
     
     

Accidental Movement of a Ball on the Putting Green 

13.1d - There is no penalty if the player, opponent or another player accidentally causes a ball or ball-marker to move when it lies on the putting green.

What You Need to Know

1. The player MUST replace the ball on its original spot (which if not known must be estimated) OR place a ball-marker to mark the original spot
   
   
2. Actions that are considered accidental;
   • Taking normal actions near the ball before attempting a stroke, such as practice swings
   • The player drops a coin or club, hitting the ball and causing it to move
   • Unintentionally kicking the ball, dropping something on it, or pressing down a ball-marker
   • Inadvertently stepping on the ball-marker and it sticks to the bottom of his or her shoe
     
     
3. EXCEPTION - The ball must be played as it lies when the ball begins to move during the players backswing or stroke and the stroke is made