USGA rules on distance devices

Far Hills, N.J. – The United States Golf Association will not adopt the new local rule allowing the use of distance-measuring devices at its championships or qualifying rounds in 2006. However, the association will review the matter annually.

Even though the USGA will not adopt this local rule in its championships in 2006, it recognizes that state and local golf associations, tournament committees and individual golf courses may choose to adopt it.

This rule allowing the use of distance-measuring devices will be available for use by committees beginning Jan. 1, 2006. Decision 14-3/0.5 local rule permitting use of distance-measuring device allows a committee to establish a local rule permitting players to use devices that measure distance only.

However, if, during a stipulated round with this local rule in effect, a player uses a device that actually provides him/her with information on other conditions that might affect play (e.g., gradient, wind velocity, wind direction, etc.), the player is in breach of Rule 14-3, for which the penalty is disqualification. In the absence of such a local rule, the use of a distance-measuring device would be contrary to Rule 14-3, which deals with artificial devices and unusual equipment.