My Golf Ball Is Out of Bounds. Now What?

Whether your golf ball crosses white stakes, fencing or boundary markers, you are unsure if your ball is still in play, or you need to determine your next shot, the correct ruling depends on the details of your situation.

Out of bounds is one of the most common golf rules golfers encounter, but many players are unsure about when a ball is considered out of bounds, what penalty applies, when to apply that penalty, and what to do next.

Before hitting your next shot or putting another ball into play, make sure you understand your options under the Rules of Golf. Refer to page 44 of Where's the Golf Ball.

Where's the Golf Ball? The Rules of Golf Simplified from Tee to Green makes it easy to find the right answer based on where your golf ball is. With simple language, helpful illustrations, and real on-course scenarios, it's designed to help golfers of every skill level play with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.

Join golfers around the world who are keeping Where's the Golf Ball? in their bag so the answer is always within reach.

(C) 2026, Where's the Golf Ball? The Rules of Golf Simplified from Tee to Green by BrookeLin Powers, Award-Winning Author, LPGA Class A Professional, TPI Certified. Conforms to the Current USGA and R&A Rules of Golf.