The fairway-drop alternative: check E-5 first.

Model Local Rule E-5 is an optional lost-ball or out-of-bounds procedure. It is not in effect everywhere.

Plain-language guide · Model Local Rule E-5. Use the current official text and your round’s Local Rules for a ruling.

Confirm it applies

The Committee must adopt it. The cost is two penalty strokes. It cannot be used for a ball known or virtually certain to be in a penalty area, or for the original ball after you have played a provisional.

Use the defined area

Estimate the ball reference point and the nearest fairway point no closer to the hole. The Rule defines a broad relief area between them, with specified extensions. It is not simply “drop anywhere on the fairway.”

Count the score

After a tee shot lost outside a penalty area or out of bounds, this option puts you in position to play your fourth stroke. If unsure about the area, ask for help or use stroke and distance.