Your ball is in a bunker. When you arrive at your ball you see several loose impediments (stones) right behind your ball. Are you allowed to remove loose impediments in a bunker before you play your ball?
Rule 12.2a Removing Loose Impediments
Before playing a ball in a bunker, a player may remove loose impediments under Rule 15.1
Rule 15.1a Removal of Loose Impediments
Without penalty, a player may remove a loose impediment anywhere on or off the course, and may do so in any way.
Rule 15.1b Ball moved When Removing Loose Impediment
If a player’s removal of a loose impediment causes his or her ball to move:
• The ball must be replaced on its original spot and the player gets one penalty stroke under Rule 9.4b.
• If the player does not replace the ball to its original spot the player would be playing from the wrong place. Penalty for playing a ball from a wrong place is in breach of Rule 14.7a: General Penalty two strokes.
Here is this month’s golf etiquette tip: All players are expected to play in the spirit of the game by: Acting with integrity, by following the Rules, applying all penalties, and being honest in all aspects of play. Showing consideration to others, by playing at a prompt pace, looking out for the safety of others, and not distracting the play of other players. Taking care of the course, replacing divots, smoothing bunkers, repairing ball-marks, and not causing unnecessary damage to the course.
