Rules Guy explains relief rules for golf balls hitting decoys
Golf.com • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 4:19 PM
Last updated Sep 15, 2026

On September 15, the Rules Guy addressed a common question regarding golf: whether a player is entitled to free relief if their ball strikes a bird decoy on the course. This situation raises interesting points about the rules of play and obstacles on the course. Players often encounter various artificial items during their rounds, making understanding these rules essential for proper gameplay. The guidance provided aims to clarify the conditions under which relief may be granted in such instances.
- •Discussion focuses on rules for balls hitting bird decoys.
- •Player entitlement to free relief is the main concern.
- •Questions about artificial items on the course are common.
- •Clarification aims to improve player understanding of regulations.
- 4:19 PMGolf.com — Rules Guy: Do I get free relief if my ball hits a fake bird?
"What should you do if your ball hits a bird decoy on the course? Are you entitled to free relief? Rules Guy has the answer. The post Rules Guy: Do I get free relief if my ball hits a fake bird? appeared first on Golf.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
PGA Tour•Sep 15, 2026, 4:59 PMPGA Tour not contemplating path back for LIV players similar to Brooks Koepka
PGA Tour•Sep 15, 2026, 4:40 PMLeBron James responds after Ludvig Aberg rates his golf swing worse than Michael Jordan and 10 other celebs
PGA Tour•Sep 15, 2026, 4:33 PMGolf awards for 2026: Scottie Scheffler, Cameron Young show out as Gary Woodland tugs at heartstrings
Golf•Sep 15, 2026, 3:58 PMVOTE: Volusia-Flagler Girls Athlete of the Week for Sept. 7-12 presented by Halifax Health
PGA Tour•Sep 15, 2026, 3:45 PMPatrick Reed leads Race to Dubai as top 10 seal PGA Tour cards
PGA Tour•Sep 15, 2026, 3:44 PMTop golfers to get no favours for PGA Tour return after LIV bankruptcy
