What Is an Embedded Ball in Golf?
Embedded Ball: A ball stuck in its own pitch-mark in the general area — you get free relief.
Embedded Ball — full definition
A ball that is embedded in its own pitch-mark in the general area (anywhere except penalty areas, bunkers, and putting greens) is entitled to free relief. You may lift, clean, and drop the ball within one club-length of the spot directly behind where it was embedded, no closer to the hole.
Embedded Ball — frequently asked
Embedded Ball — where does it apply?
- General area only (fairway, rough, fringe)
- Does NOT apply in penalty areas, bunkers, or on the putting green
Embedded Ball — what’s the relief?
- Free relief — lift, clean, and drop
- Drop within one club-length directly behind the embedded spot, no closer to the hole
More on Embedded Ball
Plugged balls are a soft-ground phenomenon, which makes this a seasonal rule in most of the country.
- Golf weatherRain history and forecast by state.
- Free reliefThe wider category this rule sits inside.
Other rules & penalties
Stymie
A historic golf term for when an opponent’s ball blocked your path to the hole on the putting green.
Lateral Hazard
Now called a red penalty area — a hazard running alongside the line of play.
Out of Bounds
The area beyond the course boundary, marked by white stakes or a fence.
Provisional Ball
A second ball played from the same spot when you think your original may be lost or out of bounds.
Unplayable Lie
You can declare your ball unplayable anywhere except in a penalty area, with three relief options.
Ground Under Repair
A marked area on the course where you get free relief — no penalty.
Free Relief
Relief without penalty, available in specific situations defined by the Rules of Golf.