What are out of bounds in golf?

Definition

The area beyond the official boundaries of a golf course, marked by white stakes or lines, where balls are considered lost and subject to stroke-and-distance penalties. Out-of-bounds areas typically include adjacent properties, roads, parking lots, or other non-playable areas. When a ball goes out of bounds, players must return to the location of their previous shot and play again with a one-stroke penalty. Understanding out-of-bounds rules and identifying boundary markers helps golfers make strategic decisions about risk versus reward and ensures proper penalty application. Out-of-bounds penalties can significantly impact scoring, making course management crucial.