²© 2010-2011 Deutscher Golf Verband e.V. All rights reserved
"Safety and consideration on the golf course according to DGV golf etiquette
Introduction
This section sets out guidelines for the behavior that is expected when playing golf. If these guidelines are adhered to, all players can achieve the greatest possible enjoyment of the game. The overriding principle is that consideration should always be shown for other players on the course.
Spirit of the Game
The "true spirit of the game" (Spirit of the Game) Golf is predominantly played without the presence of a referee or impartial referee. The game is based on the honest effort of each individual player to show consideration for other players and to play according to the rules. All players should behave in a disciplined manner and show courtesy and sportsmanship at all times, no matter how ambitious they may be. This is the "true spirit of the game of golf".
Safety
Players should ensure that no one is standing close to them or otherwise in a position where they could be struck by a club, ball or anything (such as stones, sand, twigs etc.) that is moved during a shot or swing when taking a shot or practice swing.
Players should not play until the players in front of them are out of range. Players should always be aware of course workers near them or in the direction of play when playing a shot that could endanger them.
If a player hits a ball in a direction where it could hit someone, they should shout a warning immediately. The usual warning call in such a situation is "Fore".
Consideration for other players
Do not disturb or distract
Players should always be considerate of other players on the court and not disturb their play through movement, conversation or avoidable noise.
Players should ensure that any electronic devices they bring onto the course do not distract other players. On the tee, a player should not put his ball down before it is his turn.
Other players should not stand close to or directly behind the player's ball or directly behind the hole when the player is about to hit the ball.
On the green
On the green players should not stand on or near another player's putting line or cast their shadow on the putting line when another player is playing.
Players should remain near the green until all players have completed that hole.
Writing down the stroke numbers
A player used as a counter in counting play should, if necessary, compare the score of the last hole with the player on the way to the next tee and write it down.
Pace of play
Play quickly and keep up
Players should maintain a fast pace of play. The game management can set guidelines for the pace of play that all players should adhere to. It is the responsibility of a group of players to keep up with the group in front of them. If they fall a whole hole behind the group in front of them and hold up the group behind them, they should offer to play through, regardless of how many players are in that group. If a group of players does not have a whole hole free in front of them, but it is still clear that the following group of players can play faster, the following group should be allowed to play through.
Be prepared for the shot
Players should be ready to play their shot immediately when it is their turn. If they are on or near the green, they should place their golf bags or carts in a position that allows them to move quickly from the green to the next tee. Players should leave the green immediately after completing a hole.
Lost ball
If a player believes that his ball may be lost or out of bounds outside a water hazard, he should play a provisional ball to save time. Players looking for a ball should immediately signal to subsequent players to overtake them if the ball they are looking for is obviously not immediately to be found. They should not search for five minutes before overtaking. They should only continue their game when the following players have overtaken and are out of range.
Right of way on the golf course according to DGV golf etiquette
Unless otherwise determined by the course management, priority on the course is determined by the pace of play of a group of players. Each game over the full round is entitled to be given the opportunity to overtake any game over a shorter round. The term "group" or "group of players" includes an individual player.
Protection of the golf course
Leveling bunkers
Before leaving a bunker, players should carefully level any bumps and footprints caused by themselves or by other players in the vicinity. If a rake is available near the bunker, the rake should be used.
Repairing divots, ball holes and damage caused by shoes
A player should ensure that any divot damaged or knocked out by him is immediately replaced and pressed down and that any damage to the green caused by a ball impact (whether caused by the player's ball or not) is carefully repaired. Once all players in the group have completed the hole, any damage to the green caused by golf shoes should be repaired." ²
