We've all been there before where we aren't quite sure whether we can remove an object on or around our ball.  There's always that one guy in your group who shouts, "hey you can't touch that!"  Let's make sure you know the actual rules so you can properly use relief from loose impediments to your advantage.  Please keep in mind the new 2019 Rules of Golf gives additional relief in more ares of the course so be sure to check that out below.

This article will take a closer look at Rule 15 concerning relief from loose impediments.  Loose impediments are objects that have become detached from their original position and are thus out of play.

The USGA defines a loose impediment as a natural object - including stones, grass shavings, leaves, twigs, branches, pinecones, pine straw, dung, worms, and insects; provided that they are not fixed or growing, solidly embedded, or adhering to the ball. Sand and loose soil are loose impediments on the putting green, but not elsewhere. Snow and natural ice, other than frost, are either casual water or loose impediments, at the option of the player. Dew and frost are not considered loose impediments.

In the past, loose impediments could only be removed on the teeing ground, "through the green" (now general area), or the putting green.  With the new rules, loose impediments may now be removed anywhere on or off the course including previously restricted ares such as penalty areas or bunkers.  This now means you can move that intrusive twig or rock in bunkers.  Keep in mind, however, that if you cause the ball to move while removing a loose impediment you will be assessed a 1 stroke penalty and will be forced to replace the ball.

So, how does this help you? Removing loose impediments is one of the few times where the Rules permit you to alter the area of your intended stance/swing, lie, or line of play without penalty. If you asked Tiger Woods to define "loose impediment" during the 1999 Phoenix Open, his interpretation may be a little bit more liberal than how the rule was intended. Need a refresher? (video)

**Written by Nicholas Heyrman, the NCCGA Director of Tournament Operations 2015-2016.  This article was updated to reflect the 2019 update to the Rules of Golf