Pitch Marks on the Green

A ball hitting the green often leaves an indent or pitch mark where it makes contact with the ground. Golf rules (rule #16-1c) allow you to repair any pitch marks on the green before putting. Players may repair any hole plug or damage to the putting green caused by the impact of a ball, whether or not their ball lies on the putting green. If a ball is moved accidentally during the course of a repair, it can be replaced without penalty.

It is accepted practice to repair any pitch marks you make, as well as common courtesy to fix one or two more while you are at it, to help keep your course in top condition. To repair a pitch mark, insert a turf repair tool into the ground on the high side of the pitch mark, press the tool forward to push the soil back up into place (be sure not to press backwards and pull the roots loose, as this destroys the grass). If required, repeat the process on the other side of the pitch mark. Finish by gently tapping the spot with your putter.

Remember that virtually any shot that hits the green from a fly position will cause some damage, so be sure to find it and repair it.