Golf Etiquette Every Group Member Should Know

Etiquette isn’t a collection of dusty old rules — it’s the foundation that keeps golf enjoyable for everyone. In a group, it matters even more: you’re playing with the same people regularly, and the relationships you build extend beyond the course.

Whether you’re new to a group or brushing up on the finer points, mastering these essentials makes you the kind of partner everyone wants to play with.

The golden rule

Before you start — preparation and arrival

• Arrive early. 20–30 minutes to check in, change shoes, warm up.
• Come prepared. Enough balls, tees, and a pitch-mark repairer.
• Know the format. Read the competition rules in advance.
• Charge your phone. Especially if you’re scoring digitally.
• Read local rules. Course-specific or temporary restrictions.

On the tee

Tee box honour and order

First tee. Usually decided by handicap (lowest first) or a quick toss of a tee.

Subsequent holes. The player with the best score on the previous hole has the honour.

Playing the course

Keep up the pace

Slow play ruins a group day faster than anything else.

• Ready golf. If you’re ready and it’s safe, play.
• Limit practice swings. One or two, max.
• Walk briskly between shots. Save the long conversations for between holes.
• Be prepared. Know the yardage and pick a club while others play.
• Play a provisional. If a shot might be lost or out of bounds.

Course care

• Repair pitch marks — your own and one other on every green
• Replace divots or use the seed mix
• Rake bunkers — footprints and ball marks
• Don’t damage the course with trolleys or bags
• Respect roped-off areas — they’re usually being restored

On the green

Flagstick etiquette

Since 2019 you can leave the flag in while putting, but always ask your partners their preference. When removing it, lay it down gently away from the hole and any lines.

Safety

• Never hit until the group ahead is out of range. Even with your best shot.
• Shout “fore!” immediately if any ball heads toward people.
• Wait for all-clear before hitting near or over other players.
• Be aware of maintenance workers and other groups.
• Handle clubs safely. Don’t swing near others.

Group-specific etiquette

Competition

• Know the rules. Format and any special rules.
• Keep accurate scores. Double-check cards before signing.
• Handle disputes gracefully. Consult the rules or ask the organiser.
• Support the group. Help with set-up and clean-up.
• Play with integrity. By the rules, even when no one’s watching.

The social side

• Be inclusive. Welcome new members; include quieter players in conversation.
• Time your socialising. Save longer chats for between holes or after.
• Respect concentration. Let people focus when they need to.
• Share knowledge helpfully. Don’t over-coach unless asked.
• Handle bad shots gracefully. A sympathetic “unlucky” beats a swing analysis.

Phone and tech

• Silent mode. Phones never ring or ping during play.
• Emergency calls only. Step away if you must take one.
• Scoring apps are fine. Be discreet and efficient.
• Photos are welcome. Ask before photographing others and don’t slow play.
• Distance finders. Use efficiently without holding up play.

After the round

The bigger picture

Etiquette exists for a reason — it keeps the game enjoyable for everyone, protects the traditions that make golf special, and creates space for friendships to grow.

Good etiquette isn’t about following rules perfectly. It’s about showing consideration for others and respect for the game. Master that and you’ll improve your own enjoyment and everybody else’s.