Unfortunately, we golfers don’t always hit our balls where we’re intending to and sometimes we can end up in distinctly unappealing spots. The Rule that every golfer needs to know perhaps more than any other is, therefore, what can we do when it’s simply not possible to play our ball, or when any attempt to do so may be unwise or could potentially lead to even greater trouble.
The Rule covering the various options available to you in these situations is Rule 19 - Unplayable Ball, but it is important to stress first that you may deem your ball unplayable at any place on the golf course, except when it is in a penalty area. Your ball does not have to be physically unplayable for you to deem it unplayable under the Rules, and you, as the player, are the sole judge as to whether or not your ball is unplayable. You could even declare it unplayable if it’s perfectly placed in the middle of the fairway should you wish to do so for some unfathomable reason!
