May 2024
Rule 14.1.c Cleaning Lifted Ball
When you lift your ball from the putting green it may always be cleaned.
You may also clean your ball whenever you are taking free relief or a penalty drop.
You may NOT clean your ball if you lift it to see if it is cracked or cut. You may NOT clean your ball if it interferes with play. Cleaning is allowed only as needed to identify your ball.
If you clean a lifted ball when not allowed, you get a one stroke penalty.