Free relief is specific—not a general right to a nicer lie.
Plain-language guide · Rule 16.1. Use the current official text and your round’s Local Rules for a ruling.
What to know
In the general area, qualifying interference from a cart path, ground under repair, temporary water, or an animal hole may allow relief. Find the nearest point of complete relief and the required one-club-length relief area, no nearer the hole.
On the course
Check your stance and intended swing, then identify the point before lifting the ball. Penalty areas, bunkers, and greens have different procedures.