Outline of Contents

800 801 801.01 801.02 801.03 801.04

Definitions Conduct of Players Courtesy Order of Play Excessive Time Playing the Stipulated Course Equipment Discs Used in Play Mini Marker Discs Targets Artificial Devices Rules of Play General Description of the Game Practice Throws Provisional Throws Appeals Warnings Rule of Fairness Teeing Off Marking the Lie Stance, Subsequent to Teeing Off Obstacles and Relief Optional Rethrow

803.07 803.08 803.09 803.10 803.11 803.12 803.13 804 804.01 804.02 804.03 804.04 804.05 804.06 804.07 804.08 804.09 805

Interference Disc Above Or Below the Playing Surface Out-of-Bounds Playing from Another Player's Lie Lost Disc Mandatories Holing Out Tournament Procedures Special Conditions Beginning Play Scoring Rain or Hazardous Conditions Disqualification and Suspension Grouping and Sectioning Ties Classification of Players Officials Measurement Cross-Reference and Equipment Technical Standards Summary of Rules Changes

802 802.01 802.02 802.03 802.04 803 803.01 A. B. C. D. E. F. 803.02 803.03 803.04 803.05 803.06

Copyright 2011 The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA)

Professional Disc Golf Association Revised January 1, 2011

PDGA Official Rules of Disc Golf

Introduction
The growing popularity of the game of disc golf begins with the essential fact that throwing a flying disc with power and accuracy is a marvelous sensation. The constant challenge, the social nature of the game, the good physical and mental conditioning, and the fact that it is inexpensive to begin play are also attractions. Disc golf is a recreational sport for everyone, regardless of age, sex, or ability. The object of the game is to traverse a course from beginning to end in the fewest number of throws of the disc. Each consecutive throw is made from where the disc came to rest after the last throw. Score is determined by counting the number of throws made on each hole plus penalty throws and then summing all holes. The winner is the player who completes the course with the lowest score. The course consists of a series of holes laid out so that when the player completes one hole he or she proceeds to the beginning of the next until all the holes have been played. The player is provided with a teeing area from which to begin each hole and a target to complete the hole. Disc golf courses are normally laid out among wooded areas with diverse terrain to provide natural obstacles to the flight of the disc. These natural obstacles are very much a part of the game and must not be altered by the players in any way to decrease the difficulty of a hole. Disc golf courses are normally 18 holes in length, but there are other combinations as well, including 9-hole, 22-hole, 24-hole and 27-hole courses in existence. Disc golf courses can be found in each of the 50 United States and 36 countries. A complete list of courses is available at www.pdga.com/course_directory. Disc golf is a game that expects high standards of etiquette and courtesy. Among the basic considerations of etiquette are such things as concern for spectators and other players and respect for plant life on the course. These rules have been designed to promote fair play for all disc golfers. In using these rules, players shall apply the rule that most directly addresses the situation in question. If in doubt, players shall consult an official. The rules are available at www.pdga.com/rules, and applications of the rules to particular situations can be found at www.pdga.com/rulesqa.

Read more about the rules of disc golf at www.pdga.com

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800. Definitions
Approximate Lie: A lie established by the player's group in order to resume play: to correct a misplay from out-of-bounds (801.04 B (4)), following the thrower's election to throw from the previous lie after declaring an optional rethrow (803.06 A), following the throwers election to throw from the previous lie after throwing out-of-bounds (803.09B (1)), following an instance where the throwers disc has been thrown and removed by another player (803.10 B), following a lost disc (803.11 B), following a lost marker disc (803.11 D), or following a rain or hazardous conditions delay (Competition Manual 1.7 C). Away Player: The player whose lie is farthest from the hole and who shall throw next. Basket Target: A disc-catching device designed to clearly determine completion of a hole. A basket target generally consists of a tray, chains, chain support, and pole. Casual Water: Bodies of water other than those that have been specifically designated by the director prior to the start of the round as out-of-bounds or those that have been specifically designated by the director prior to the start of the round as not being casual water. Chains: A deflection assembly which is designed to deflect a thrown disc down into the tray component of a basket target. Chain Support: The structure from which the chains are suspended; a deflector support which often forms the top of a basket target. Completion of a Round: The round has been officially completed for all competitors when, in the directors opinion, the lastgroup on the course has completed their final hole and has had reasonable time to travel from their final hole to tournament headquarters. Director: The person in charge of the tournament or event. The term director may be used to refer to the tournament director or the course director in multi-site tournaments. The Director may designate an official to rule on appeals. Drop Zone: An area on the course, as designated by the course designer or director, from which play is resumed after the preceding shot (1) was thrown out-of-bounds, (2) missed a mandatory, (3) was declared lost, or (4) landed in a protected area (governed by 804.01, Special Conditions). The throwing area from within the drop zone shall be clearly marked and played in a manner similar to the marking and playing of a teeing area. Fairway: The in-bounds path or field over which a player throws while advancing from the teeing area to the hole. Group: The competitors who are assigned to play a round together for the purpose of verifying scores and proper play in accordance with the rules. Hole: The target that must be reached in order to complete that segment of the course. The term hole also refers to the numbered segments of the course that are separate units for scoring. Holed-Out: A term used to signify completion of a hole. See 803.13, Holing Out. Lie: The spot on the playing surface upon which the player takes his or her stance in accordance with the rules.

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Line of Play: The imaginary line on the playing surface extending from the center of the target through the center of the marker disc and beyond. This line has no thickness; therefore one support point must be directly behind the center of the marker. Mandatory: An object or objects that the disc must pass in a designated manner on its way to the hole. A mandatory functions to limit the allowable path the disc may take to the hole. Marker: A term used to indicate either the mini marker disc or the thrown disc at rest, both of which can be used to indicate the lie from which a throwers next shot shall be played. Marker Disc: See Marker. Mini: See Mini Marker disc. Mini Marker Disc: A disc used to mark the location of the lie. (See 803.03 marking the lie, and 802.02, size restrictions). Obstacle: Any feature of the course that may impede any aspect of play. Official: A person who is authorized to make judgments regarding the proper application of the rules during play. Out-of-Bounds: An area designated by the director prior to the start of play from which a disc may not be played. The out-of-bounds line extends a plane vertically upward and downward. The out-of-bounds line is itself out-of-bounds. An out-ofbounds disc is not a lost disc.

Par: As determined by the director, the score an expert disc golfer would be expected to make on a given hole. Par means errorless play under ordinary weather conditions, allowing two close range throws to hole-out. Penalty Throw: A throw added to a players score for violating a rule, or for relocation of a lie, as called for by a rule. Players Meeting: A meeting of players with the tournament director or course official prior to a tournament, where players are given instructions about the tournament procedures, courses, and any special conditions which will apply during the tournament. Playing Surface: A surface, generally the ground, which is capable of supporting the player and from which a stance may reasonably be taken. In cases where it is unclear whether a surface is the playing surface, the decision shall be made by the tournament director or a course official. Pole: A central pipe or post which supports the other components of a basket target. Practice Throw: During a round, the projection of a disc of a distance greater than two meters, or of any distance toward a target, intentional or not, which does not change the players lie, either because it did not occur from the teeing area or the lie, or because the player had already thrown competitively from the teeing area or the lie. Throws that are re-thrown in accordance with the rules are not practice throws. Provisional throws made pursuant to 803.01 C and 803.01 D (3) are not practice throws. A player shall receive a penalty for a practice throw in accordance with sections 803.01 B or Competition Manual 1.5 B (1).

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Provisional: See Provisional Throw. Provisional Throw: An extra throw, agreed upon by a players group, that is not added to a players score if not used in the completion of the hole. Additionally, a set of provisional throws that will be allowed to complete a hole as an alternative to the original play of the hole, when there is a disputed ruling. Only one set of throws will be counted as the players score when a final ruling is made. Putt: Any throw from 10 meters or less as measured from the rear of the marker disc to the base of the hole is considered a putt. Putt (falling) Falling Putt: A putt after which a player touches his or her marker disc, or any object beyond the lie, including the playing surface, before having demonstrated full control of balance. Relief: A change made to the players lie or surrounding area, such that an obstacle is removed from the vicinity, or when that is impractical, the lie is relocated away from the obstacle in accordance with section 803.05C. Supporting Point: Any part of a players body that is in contact with the playing surface or some other object capable of providing support, at the time of release. Teeing Area: The area bounded by the edges of a tee pad (if provided); otherwise, the area extending three meters perpendicularly behind the designated tee line. Throw: The propulsion of a disc that causes it to change its position from the teeing area or the lie.

Thrower: The player who has made, or is about to make, a throw that is the aspect of play being considered by a particular rule. Tray: A shallow open-topped receptacle into which the disc may fall or be thrown. Also known as "basket", and one component of a basket target. Two meter rule: Where designated by the director, a one throw penalty for discs that come to rest two meters or higher above the playing surface. The director may declare the two meter rule to be in effect for the entire course, or just for individual obstacles. Warning: Where prescribed by a rule, the initial advisement a player is given for violating that rule, making him or her vulnerable to receiving a penalty throw for subsequent violations of that rule within the same round.

801. Conduct of Players

801.01 Courtesy: A. Players should not throw until they are certain that the thrown disc will not distract another player or potentially injure anyone present. Players should watch the other members of their group throw in order to aid in locating errant throws and to ensure compliance with the rules. B. Players should take care not to produce any distracting noises or any potential visual distractions for other players who are throwing. Examples of discourteous actions are: shouting, cursing, freestyling, slapping course equipment, throwing out of turn,

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throwing or kicking golf bags, throwing minis, and advancing on the fairway beyond the away player. Shouting at an appropriate time to warn someone in danger of being struck by a disc is not a violation of courtesy. C. Refusal to perform an action expected by the rules, such as assisting in the search for a lost disc, moving discs or equipment, or keeping score properly, etc., is a courtesy violation. D. Littering is a courtesy violation. E. Courtesy dictates that players who smoke should not allow their smoke to disturb other players. Smokers should extinguish their cigarettes and carry their cigarette butts to a trash can. Disposing of cigarette butts by dropping them on the ground is littering. F. A player violating a courtesy rule may be warned by any affected player, even if from another group, or by an official, with all players of the group advised of the warning. The player shall be assessed one penalty throw for each subsequent courtesy violation of any type in the same round. Repeated violations of courtesy rules may result in disqualification in accordance with section 3.3 of the Competition Manual. 801.02 Order of Play: A. Teeing order on the first teeing area is determined by the order in which the scorecards were filled out or by the order the players were listed or arranged on the scoreboard. B. Teeing order on all subsequent tees is determined by the scores on the previous hole, with the lowest score throwing first, and so on. If the previous hole was a tie, the scores are to be counted back until the order is resolved.

C. After all the players in the group have teed off, the player farthest from the hole (the away player) throws first. To facilitate flow of play, a player who is not farthest away may play next if the away player consents. D. During tournament play, no group may play through the group ahead unless the group ahead is required to stand aside in accordance with the rules or as directed by an official. E. Throwing out of turn shall be considered a courtesy violation. See 801.01 F. 801.03 Excessive Time: A. A maximum of 30 seconds is allowed to each player to make a throw after: (1) the previous player has thrown; and, (2) the player has taken a reasonable time to arrive at the disc and mark the lie; and, (3) the playing area is clear and free of distractions. B. A player shall receive a warning for the first excessive time violation if observed by two or more players of the group or an official. The player shall be assessed one penalty throw for each subsequent excessive time violation in the same round if observed by two or more players of the group or an official. 801.04 Playing the Stipulated Course: A. It is the responsibility of the player to play the course correctly. Before play begins, players shall attend the players meeting and ask about any special conditions that may exist on the course, including extra

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holes, alternate teeing areas, alternate hole placements, out-of-bounds areas, and mandatories. B. Specific Types of Misplay and Penalty Procedures for Each: (1) Wrong Tee: Teeing off from the wrong teeing area. If the misplay is discovered after the players throw from the incorrect teeing area, but before a subsequent throw, the player shall re-tee from the correct teeing area and treat the initial throw as a practice throw (one throw added to the players score). If the misplay is discovered after a subsequent throw, the player shall proceed to complete the hole and receive a two-throw penalty for the misplay. (2) Misplayed Mandatory: Failing to attempt to navigate a mandatory route. If the misplay is discovered after a players throw has passed beyond the mandatory on the wrong side, but before a subsequent throw has been made, the player shall be assessed a one-throw penalty and play from the drop zone as stipulated in 803.12 B. If the misplay is discovered after a players throw has passed beyond the mandatory on the wrong side, and a subsequent throw has been made, the player shall finish the hole without playing from the drop zone, and receive a two-throw penalty for the misplay. (3) Wrong Target: If a player holes out on the wrong target for a given hole, he or she will continue play from a lie directly beneath that target, without penalty. If the player holes out at the wrong target, and believes the hole is completed, and proceeds to play the next hole, a twothrow penalty will be added to that players score for misplaying the course.

(4) Out-of-Bounds Play: Playing an out-of-bounds disc as if it were in-bounds. If the misplay is discovered after the throw from out-of-bounds, but before a subsequent throw has been made, the player shall throw from the correct lie and treat the throw from out-of-bounds as a practice throw (one throw added to the players score). If the misplay is discovered after a subsequent throw, the player shall proceed to complete the hole and receive a two-throw penalty for the misplay. (5) Non-Sequential Play: Skipping a hole or playing the holes in the wrong order. If the misplay is discovered after an initial throw has been made but before a subsequent throw has been made, the player shall re-tee from the correct teeing area and count the initial throw as a practice throw (one throw added to the players score). If the misplay is discovered after a subsequent throw has been made, the hole being played shall be completed. Immediately thereafter, the player shall proceed to play the course in its proper order from the point where the misplay began. Regardless of the number of holes skipped, or played in the wrong order, a total of two penalty throws shall be added to the players score for the misplay infraction. The score earned from any completed hole(s) shall stand. Any completed hole(s) shall not be replayed. C. In instances where the misplay rules affect players within a group differently, the group shall remain together while a hole is being completed by some of the group to verify scoring and rules compliance. D. In instances where a misplay is discovered after the pertinent hole or holes have been completed (holed out), the misplay shall not be replayed and the player shall receive a two-throw penalty for the misplay.

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E. In instances where a misplay is discovered after the player has turned in his or her scorecard, the misplay shall not be replayed and the player shall receive a two-throw penalty for the misplay. F. A player who deliberately misplays the course to gain competitive advantage has violated section 3.3 of the Competition Manual and shall be penalized in accordance with this section.

D. Discs must be specifically approved by the director if questioned by another player or an official, but in no case shall the disc be approved if it violates any of the above specifications. Any specifically nonapproved disc (per the director) shall be considered illegal, and the player shall be penalized in accordance with 802.01 E. E. A player who carries an illegal disc during play shall receive two penalty throws, without a warning, if observed by two or more players of the group or an official. A player who repeatedly throws an illegal disc during the round may be subject to disqualification in accordance with section 3.3 of the PDGA Competition Manual. F. All discs used in play, except mini marker discs, must be uniquely marked in ink or pigment-based marking which has no detectable thickness. A player shall receive a warning for the first instance of throwing an unmarked disc if observed by two or more players of the group or an official. After the warning has been given, each subsequent throw by the player with an unmarked disc shall incur one penalty throw if observed by two or more players of the group or an official. 802.02 Mini Marker Discs: A. Mini marker discs shall be used to mark a players lie as required by these rules. Mini marker discs must have a diameter of between 7 and 15 centimeters and a height not exceeding 3 centimeters. 802.03 Targets: A. Targets used to complete the hole may not violate any of the conditions set forth in the official PDGA Technical Standards Document. See sections 803.13 B and C for criteria to hole out for targets.

802. Equipment
802.01 Discs Used in Play: A. Discs used in play must meet all of the conditions set forth in the Official PDGA Technical Standards Document. See section 805 B for disc technical standards. B. A disc which is cracked or perforated is illegal. See sections 802.01 D, E and F. A disc which is cracked during a round may be carried by the player, but not used, for the balance of the tournament. The player must immediately declare his intention to carry the newly cracked or broken disc to the group or be subject to penalty under 802.01 E. C. Players may not make post-production modification of discs which alter their original flight characteristics. This rule does not forbid inevitable wear and tear from usage during play or the moderate sanding of discs to smooth molding imperfections or scrape marks. Discs excessively sanded or painted with a material of detectable thickness are illegal. See sections 802.01 D, E and F.

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802.04 Artificial Devices: A. During a round, a player shall not use any artificial device that may assist in making a throw, except those devices that reduce or control abrasion to the skin (such as gloves, tape, bandages, gauze, etc.) and medical items (such as knee and ankle braces, etc.). Items used to prevent slipping on the teeing surface are also allowed. A player is specifically prohibited from using any artificial device that changes the position of the disc in the players hand or artificially lengthens any of the players throwing levers (fingers, wrist, arm, shoulder, etc.). The use of devices which assist in determining distances over 10 meters, such as range finders and GPS devices are prohibited. Measuring devices such as a tape measure may be carried and used to determine distances 10 meters and less for the purpose of rules enforcement. B. A player shall receive two penalty throws, without a warning, if, during any portion of a round, he or she is observed by two players or an official to be using or carrying an artificial device that is determined by the director to violate section 802.04 A. A player who uses an artificial device after it has been determined by the director to be in violation of 802.04 A has also violated section 3.3 of the Competition Manual and shall be penalized accordingly.

it lies unless allowed otherwise by the Rules. The competitor who plays the stipulated round or rounds in the fewest throws plus penalty throws is the winner. B. Practice Throws. A player who throws a practice throw or an extra throw with any disc any time after the start of his or her round and prior to his or her finishing the last hole of the round (except for throws that must be re-thrown in accordance with the rules, provisional throws made pursuant to 803.01 C and 803.01 D (3), or throws during a suspension or postponement of play) shall receive one penalty throw. The practice throw or extra throw must be observed by any two players or an official. C. Provisional Throws. Provisional throws are extra throws that are not added to a players score if they are not ultimately used in completion of the hole. The use of provisional throws is encouraged in all situations where there is a question regarding a throwers lie and a provisional would speed play or when the thrower questions the groups or officials ruling. The unused throws shall not be added to the throwers score nor treated as practice throws if the player announces that such additional throws are made as provisional throws prior to taking them. A provisional throw may not be subsequently declared to be an optional rethrow. Provisional throws are appropriate in the following circumstances: (1) To save time: A player may declare a provisional throw any time (a) the status of a disc cannot immediately be determined, and (b) the majority of the group agrees that playing a provisional throw may save time, and (c) the

803. Rules of Play

803.01 General: A. Description of the Game. The game of disc golf consists of throwing a flying disc from the teeing area to a target by a throw or successive throws. Players shall play the course as they find it and play the disc where

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original throw may be out of bounds, lost, or have missed a mandatory. When proceeding under this type of provisional the thrower shall complete the hole from whichever of the two throws is deemed by the group or an official as the appropriate lie according to the rules. (2) To appeal the groups or an officials ruling: A set of provisional throws may be taken to complete a hole pursuant to 803.01 D (3) When the player disagrees with the majority group decision and an official is not readily available, or if the player wishes to appeal the decision of an official. The scores from both sets of throws shall be recorded. The proper ruling and score are then determined by the director at the end of the round. D. Appeals: (1) When a group cannot reach a majority decision regarding a ruling, the benefit of the doubt shall be given to the thrower. However, any player may seek the ruling of an official, and the officials ruling shall supersede the groups ruling. Any player desiring an appeal of the groups decision shall promptly and clearly express that desire to the group. (2) If an official is readily available, the group shall stand aside to seek the officials ruling, allowing other groups to play through. (3) If an official is not readily available, the group shall proceed in one of two ways. The group may reach a majority decision with the benefit of the doubt going to the thrower, and continue play. Alternatively, if the thrower does not wish to continue play under the groups majority decision, the thrower may

declare a provisional per 803.01 C. The use of provisional throws is encouraged in all situations where the thrower questions the groups or officials ruling. (4) A player may seek an appeal of an officials ruling to the director. If the director is readily available, the appeal shall be heard directly. The group shall stand aside awaiting the ruling on appeal. If the director is not readily available, the group shall continue playing under the officials ruling. The appeal shall be made as soon as practical. The decision of the director shall be final. (5) Where a groups or officials decision is overturned on appeal, the official or director may, in the interest of fairness, allow the throwers score to remain the same or adjust the throwers score to reflect the correct interpretation of the rules. Only in a case where a replay is the most fair solution, at the discretion of the director, shall a hole or holes be replayed. E. Warnings. A player shall not receive a warning for a rules violation unless the rule specifically provides for a warning. Warnings do not carry over from one round to the next round or to a playoff. F. Rule of Fairness. If any point in dispute is not covered by the rules, the decision shall be made in accordance with fairness. Often a logical extension of the closest existing rule or the principles embodied in these rules will provide guidance for determining fairness.

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803.02 Teeing Off: A. Play shall begin on each hole with the player throwing from within the teeing area. When the disc is released, at least one of the players supporting points must be in contact with the surface of the teeing area, and all the players supporting points must be within the teeing area. If a tee pad is provided, all supporting points must be on the pad at the time of release, unless the director has specified a modified teeing area for safety reasons. If no tee pad is provided, all supporting points at the time of release must be within an area encompassed by the front line of the teeing area and two lines perpendicular to and extending back three meters from each end of the front line. The front line of the teeing area includes the outside edges of the two tee markers. Running up from behind the teeing area before the disc is released is permitted. Following through in front of the teeing area is permitted provided there is no supporting point contact outside the teeing area when the disc is released. B. Any supporting point contact outside the teeing area at the time of release constitutes a stance violation and shall be handled in accordance with sections 803.04 F, G and H. 803.03 Marking the Lie: A. After each throw, the thrown disc must be left where it came to rest until the lie is established by the placing of a marker. This can be done by placing a mini marker disc on the playing surface between the hole and the disc, directly in line with the hole, on the line of play, touching the thrown disc. A player may instead choose, without touching or repositioning the thrown disc, to use the thrown disc as the marker. The marker

may not be moved until the throw is released. A marker inadvertently moved prior to the throw shall be returned to its correct location. B. A player is only required to mark the lie with a mini marker disc when repositioning the lie under the rules. This includes the following rules: out-of-bounds, disc above or below the playing surface, lost disc, optional rethrow, relocated for relief, interference, or repositioning the lie within 1 meter of the out-of-bounds line. C. If the thrown disc comes to rest in-bounds but within one meter of an out-of-bounds line, the lie may be relocated to any point on a onemeter line that extends perpendicularly from the nearest point on the out-of-bounds line, and passes through the center of the thrown disc. This holds true even if the direction takes the lie closer to the hole. See the following sections for other considerations in marking a thrown disc: (1) Relocated for relief - 803.05 B, C (2) Interference - 803.07 A, B (3) Above or below the playing surface -803.08 A, B (4) Out-of-Bounds - 803.09 B (5) Lost Disc- 803.11 B D. The Rule of Verticality: The out-of-bounds line represents a vertical plane. Where a players lie is marked from a particular point within one meter of the out-of-bounds line pursuant to the rules, the one-meter relief may be taken from the particular point upward or downward along the vertical plane.

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E. If the thrown disc breaks and comes to rest in more than one piece, the largest piece, as agreed to by a majority of the group or an official, is deemed to be the thrown disc. F. A disc thrown in water shall be deemed to be at rest once it is floating or is moving only by the action of the water or the wind on the water. G. A player shall receive a warning for the first violation of a marking rule if observed by two or more players of the group or an official. One penalty throw shall be assessed for each subsequent violation of any marking rule during the round if observed by two or more players of the group or an official. 803.04 Stance, Subsequent to Teeing Off: A. When the disc is released, a player must: (1) Have at least one supporting point that is in contact with the playing surfaceon the line of play and within 30 centimters directly behind the marker disc (except as specified in 803.04 E); and, (2) have no supporting point contact with the marker disc or any object closer to the hole than the rear edge of the marker disc; and, (3) have all of his or her supporting points inbounds. B. Stepping past the marker disc is permitted after the disc is released, except when putting within 10 meters. C. Any throw from within 10 meters or less, as measured from the rear of the marker disc to the base of the hole, is considered a putt. A followthrough after a putt that causes the thrower to make any supporting point contact closer to

the hole than the rear edge of the marker disc constitutes a falling putt and is considered a stance violation . The player must demonstrate full control of balance before advancing toward the hole. D. A player must choose the stance that will result in the least movement of any part of any obstacle that is a permanent or integral part of the course. E. If a large solid obstacle prevents a player from taking a legal stance within 30 centimeters directly behind the marker disc, the player shall take his or her stance immediately behind that obstacle on the line of play. The player must comply with all the provisions of 803.04 A other than being within 30 centimeters directly behind the marker disc. F. A stance violation must be clearly called within three seconds after the infraction to be valid. The call may be made by any member of the group or an official. When the call is made by a member of the group, it must subsequently be confirmed by another member of the group. A player shall receive a warning for the first violation of a stance rule in the round. Subsequent violations of a stance rule in the same round shall incur a one-throw penalty. G. Any throw that involves a validly called and seconded stance violation may not be used by the thrower. Re-throws must be taken from the original lie, prior to subsequent play by others in the group. H. The player may not retrieve the originally thrown disc prior to the re-throw, except in the case of a putt from within 10 meters. Where a disc is retrieved in violation of this rule, a one throw penalty shall be imposed without a warning.

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803.05 Obstacles and Relief: A. Obstacles to a Stance or Throwing Motion: With the exception of casual obstacles to a stance as described in 803.05 B, a player is not allowed to move any obstacle on the course. No relief is granted from park equipment (such as signs, trash cans, picnic tables, etc), which is considered part of the course. A player is allowed to request that other people remove themselves and/or their belongings from the player's stance or line of play. A player must choose the stance which results in the least movement of any obstacle. Once a legal stance is taken, the player may not move an obstacle in any way in order to make room for a throwing motion. It is legal for a player's throwing motion to cause incidental movement of an obstacle. B. Casual Obstacles to a Stance: A player may obtain relief only from the following obstacles that are in the stance or run-up area: casual water, loose leaves or debris, broken branches no longer connected to a tree, motor vehicles, harmful insects or animals, players' equipment, people, or any item or area specifically designated by the director before the round. The player must first attempt to remove the obstacle. If it is impractical to move the obstacle, the player's lie may be relocated to the nearest lie which is no closer to the hole, is on the line of play, and is not more than five meters from the original lie, as agreed to by a majority of the group or an official (unless greater casual relief is announced by the director). C. Optional Relief: A player may declare that he or she is taking optional relief. The lie may then be relocated to a new lie that is no closer to the hole, and on the line of play. The original throw plus one penalty throw are counted in the player's score.

D. In situations where it is unclear if an object may be moved or other relief obtained, it shall be determined by a majority of the group or an official. E. A player shall receive one penalty throw, without a warning, for violation of an obstacle or relief rule. F. A player who purposely damages anything on the course shall receive two penalty throws, without a warning, if observed by two or more players of the group or an official. The player may also be disqualified from the tournament, in accordance with Section 3.3 of the Competition Manual. 803.06 Optional Rethrow: At any time, a player may elect to rethrow from the previous lie as evidenced by the marker disc or, if the marker disc has been moved, from an approximate lie as agreed to by the majority of the group or an official. The original throw plus one penalty throw are counted in the player's score. 803.07 Interference: A. A thrown disc that hits another player, spectator, or animal shall be played where it comes to rest. A thrown disc that is intentionally deflected or was caught and moved shall be marked as close as possible to the point of contact, as determined by a majority of the group or an official. Alternatively, for intentional interference only, the thrower has the option of taking a re-throw. Players shall not stand or leave their equipment where interference with the flight or path of a disc could easily occur. The away player may require other players to mark their lies or move their equipment before making a throw if the player believes that either could interfere with his or her throw.

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B. If a disc at rest on the playing surface or supported by the target is moved, the disc shall be replaced as close as possible to its original location, as determined by a majority of the group or an official. If a marker disc is moved, the marker disc shall be replaced as close as possible to its original location, as determined by a majority of the group or an official. (If the two meter penalty is in effect, see also 803.08 D and E for movement of a disc above the playing surface.) C. Any player who consciously alters the course of a thrown disc, or consciously moves or obscures another players thrown disc at rest or a marker disc, other than by the action of a competitively thrown disc or in the process of identification, shall receive two penalty throws, without a warning, if observed by any two players or an official. 803.08 Disc Above Or Below the Playing Surface: A. If a disc comes to rest above the playing surface in a tree or other obstacle on the course, its lie shall be marked on the playing surface directly below it. If the point directly below the disc above the playing surface is an out-of-bounds area, the disc shall be declared out-of-bounds and marked and penalized in accordance with 803.09. If the playing surface directly below the disc is inside a tree or other solid obstacle, the lie shall be marked on the line of play immediately behind the tree or other solid obstacle. The director may designate a one throw penalty for discs that come to rest two meters or higher above the playing surface. The director may declare the two meter rule to be in effect for the entire course, or just for individual obstacles. (Sections C through E are only used if the two meter penalty is in effect.)

B. If a disc comes to rest below the playing surface, its lie shall be marked on the playing surface directly above it. If the point directly above the disc is an out-of-bounds area, the disc shall be declared out-of-bounds and marked an penalized in accordance with 803.09. If the playing surface directly above the disc is inside a solid obstacle, the lie shall be marked on the line of play immediately behind the solid obstacle. C. If a disc has come to rest above two meters, as measured from the lowest point of the disc to the playing surface directly below it, the player shall be assessed a one-throw penalty. This penalty applies only if the disc is above in-bounds. The player shall proceed from a lie marked in accordance with 803.08 A. D. No penalty shall be incurred if the disc falls, unassisted by a player or spectator, to a position less than two meters above the playing surface before the thrower arrives at the disc. The thrower may not delay in order to allow the position of the disc to improve. E. If the two-meter status of a disc is uncertain, either a majority of the group or an official shall make the determination. If the thrower moves the disc before determination has been made, the disc shall be considered above two meters and the thrower shall proceed in accordance with 803.08 A and C. If a player other than the thrower moves the disc before a determination has been made, the disc shall be considered below two meters and the interference rule shall be applied as it relates to the thrower and the player. See sections 803.07 B and C.

803.09803.11

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803.09 Out-of-Bounds: A. A disc shall be considered out-of-bounds only when it comes to rest and it is clearly and completely surrounded by the out-of-bounds area. A disc thrown in water shall be deemed to be at rest once it is floating or is moving only by the action of the water or the wind on the water. See section 803.03 F. The out-ofbounds line itself is considered out-of-bounds. In order to consider the disc as out-of-bounds, there must be reasonable evidence that the disc came to rest within the out-of-bounds area. In the absence of such evidence, the disc will be considered lost and the player will proceed according to rule 803.11B. B. A player whose disc is considered out-ofbounds shall receive one penalty throw. The player may elect to play the next shot from: (1) The previous lie as evidenced by the marker disc or, if the marker disc has been moved from an approximate lie, as agreed to by the majority of the group or an official; or (2) A lie that is up to one meter away from and perpendicular to the point where the disc last crossed into out-of-bounds, as determined by a majority of the group or an official. This holds true even if the direction takes the lie closer to the hole; or (3) Within the designated Drop Zone, if provided. These options may be limited by the tournament director as a special condition (see 804.01). C. The Rule of Verticality. The out-of-bounds line represents a vertical plane. Where a players lie is marked from a particular point within one meter of the out-of-bounds line pursuant to the rules, the one-meter

relief may be taken from the particular point upward or downward along the vertical plane. D. If the in-bounds status of a disc is uncertain, either a majority of the group or an official shall make the determination. If the thrower moves the disc before a determination has been made, the disc shall be considered out-of-bounds, and he or she shall proceed in accordance with 803.09B counting all throws made prior to the determination of the in-bounds status of the original lie. If a player other than the thrower moves the disc before a determination has been made, the disc shall be considered in-bounds, and play for the thrower and the mover of the disc shall proceed under the rules of interference, 803.07 B and C. 803.10 Throwing From Another Players Lie: A. A player who has thrown from another players lie shall receive two penalty throws, without a warning. The offending player shall complete the hole as if the other players lie were his or her own. No throws shall be replayed. B. The player whose lie was played by the offending player shall be given an approximate lie as close to the original lie as possible, as determined by the offending player, a majority of his or her group, or an official. See section 803.11 C if the disc has been declared lost. 803.11 Lost Disc: A. A disc shall be declared lost if the player cannot locate it within three minutes after arriving at the spot where it was last seen by the group or an official. Two players or an official must note when the timing of three minutes begins. All players of the group must, upon request, assist in searching for the disc

803.11-803.12

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for the full three minutes before the disc is declared lost. The disc is considered lost immediately upon the expiration of the three minute time limit. B. A player whose disc is declared lost shall receive one penalty throw. If the throw was made from the tee, the player will re-tee for the next shot. If not made from the tee, the group will determine the approximate lie from which the throw was made, and the player will throw again from that lie. The director may designate a drop zone for lost discs on a particular hole. If a drop zone is provided, the player may throw from there instead of the previous lie or the tee. In all cases the original throw plus one penalty throw shall be counted in the player's score. C. If it is discovered prior to the completion of the tournament, that a players disc that was declared lost had been removed or taken, then the player shall have two throws removed from his or her score. D. A marker disc that is lost shall be replaced in its approximate lie as agreed to by a majority of the group or an official with no penalty. 803.12 Mandatories: A. A mandatory restricts the path the disc may take to the target. A disc must pass the correct side of the mandatory before the hole is completed. Once the disc has completely passed the mandatory line on the correct side (even if it subsequently re-crosses the line), the mandatory is to be ignored for the remainder of play on that hole. (1) The mandatory line is the line marked by the director or course designer to indicate when a disc has passed or missed the mandatory.

(2) If no line is marked, the mandatory line is defined as a straight line through the mandatory, perpendicular to the line from the tee to the mandatory. (3) In the case of a double mandatory when no line is marked, the mandatory line is the straight line connecting the two mandatories, and extends beyond them in both directions. B. A throw is considered to have missed the mandatory if it passes the incorrect side of the mandatory line from the direction of the tee, and comes to rest lying completely beyond that line. C. A disc that has missed the mandatory results in a one-throw penalty and the next throw shall be made from the drop zone, as designated for that mandatory. In cases where the drop zone is not designated, the lie is marked within five meters of the mandatory object and one meter behind the mandatory line which extends from the correct side of the mandatory. D. When marking the lie, if the line of play does not pass the correct side of the mandatory, then the mandatory itself shall be considered the hole for the application of all rules regarding stance, markers, obstacles, and relief. For the purposes of taking a legal stance, the mandatory object which has not yet been passed, and is nearest the tee, will be considered to be the hole. E. A throw that misses a mandatory shall be penalized and the lie marked according to the mandatory rule (803.12). It will not be further penalized for any other reason, such as out-of-bounds or above two meters.

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803.13 Holing Out: A. A player who fails to play any hole or fails to hole out on any hole during the round may be disqualified, at the discretion of the director, using the following guidelines: (1) Holes missed due to late arrival may be scored and penalized according to section 1.5 B of the Competition Manual. (2) Inadvertently failing to hole out (as determined by a majority of the group or an official) shall result in 2 penalty throws being added to the number of throws plus penalty throws already taken on the hole. The hole shall then be considered completed. (3) Intentionally failing to hole out (emergency, injury, plane flight, etc.) constitutes withdrawal from competition. The player shall be withdrawn from competition and officially listed as Did Not Finish on the scorecard and in the event results. B. Disc Entrapment Devices: In order to hole out, the thrower must release the disc and it must come to rest supported by the chains and/or the inner cylinder (bottom and inside wall) of the tray. It may be additionally supported by the pole. A disc observed by two or more players of the group or an official to have entered the target below the top of the tray or above the bottom of the chain support is not holed out. C. Object Targets: In order to hole out, the thrower must release the disc and it must strike the marked target area on the object as specified by the director.

804. Tournament Procedures

804.01 Special Conditions: A. Rules governing special conditions that may exist on the course shall be clearly defined and disseminated to all players prior to the start of the tournament. All special conditions shall be covered in the players' meeting. Each player is responsible for adhering to all points covered in the players' meeting. B. The drop zone may be utilized in special conditions. The director must announce prior to the tournament how it is to be used and if a penalty throw is to be assessed. If no penalty is announced prior to the tournament, none will be assessed for use of the drop zone in special conditions. C. The two meter rule may be utilized in special conditions. The director must announce prior to the tournament how it is to be used and if a penalty throw is to be assessed. If no penalty is announced prior to the tournament, none will be assessed when a disc comes to rest two meters or higher above the playing surface. The director may declare the two meter rule to be in effect for the entire course, or just for individual obstacles. D. No rules may be stipulated which conflict with the PDGA Rules of Play, unless approved by the Tour Manager of the PDGA. 804.02 Beginning Play: Please refer to section 1.5B of the Competition Manual.

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804.03 Scoring: A. The player listed first on the scorecard(s) bears primary responsibility for picking up the groups scorecard(s), although any player may deliver it (them) to the first player. Players in the group shall rotate the scorekeeping responsibility proportionally, unless a player or a scorekeeper volunteers to keep score more and this is acceptable to all members of the group. B. After each hole is completed, the scorekeeper shall call out each players name. The called player shall answer with the score in a manner that is clear to all players of the group and the scorekeeper. The scorekeeper shall record that score and read it back, in a manner that is clear to all players of the group. If there is any disagreement about the score a player reports, the group must review the hole and attempt to arrive at the correct score. If the group cannot reach consensus on the players score, they shall consult 803.01 D. C. The scorekeeper shall record the score for each player on each hole as the total number of throws, including penalty throws. The round total shall also be recorded as the total number of throws, including penalty throws. The use of anything else (including the lack of a score) represents an incorrect hole or total score and is subject to penalty as described in 804.03.G(2). D. Warnings and penalty throws given to a player for rules infractions shall be noted on the scorecard.

E. At the end of the round, each player shall sign his or her scorecard indicating that he or she attests to the accuracy of the score on each hole and the total score. If all the players of the group agree that a hole score was recorded in error, the score may be changed prior to the scorecard being turned in. Players whose scorecards are turned in unsigned accept responsibility for the scores reported. F. All players are responsible for returning their scorecards within 25 minutes after the completion of a round. Failure to do so shall result in the assessment of two penalty throws, without a warning, to each player listed on the late scorecard. G. After the scorecard is turned in, the total score as recorded shall stand with no appeal, except for the following circumstances: (1) Penalty throws may be assessed at whatever time the infraction is discovered until the director declares the tournament officially over or all awards have been distributed. (2) If it is determined that the total score was incorrectly recorded, either by an error on a hole score or by an error in totaling the hole scores, including omission of the total score, the director shall add two penalty throws to the correct total score. These penalty throws are not added when the TD (or an official designated by the TD, such as a course director) corrects a players score for other infractions determined after this player had turned in an otherwise correct scorecard. (3) Late Scorecard. See 804.03 F.

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804.04 Rain or Hazardous Conditions: Please refer to section 1.7 of the Competition Manual. 804.05 Disqualification and Suspension: Please refer to section 3.3 of the Competition Manual. 804.06 Grouping and Sectioning: Please refer to section 1.6 of the Competition Manual. 804.07 Ties: Please refer to section 1.9 of the Competition Manual. 804.08 Classification of Players: Please refer to section 2 of the Competition Manual. 804.09 Officials: Please refer to section 1.11 of the Competition Manual.

805. Measurement Cross Reference and Equipment Technical Standards

A. All measurements listed in the rules are given in metric units. The following English System equivalents are to be used when no metric measuring device is available.Under no circumstances shall players or officials use independent conversion calculations. Metric System 10 meters 5 meters 3 meters 2 meters 1 meter 30 centimeters 15 centimeters 7 centimeters 3 centimeters English System 32 feet 10 inches 16 feet 5 inches 9 feet 10 inches 6 feet 6 inches 3 feet 3 inches 11 and 3/4 inches 5 and 7/8 inches 2 and 3/4 inches 1.18 inches

B. The guidelines for golf discs and targets are set forth in the PDGA Technical Standards Document posted on the PDGA website in the Technical Standards section at:

www.pdga.com/tech-standards
Specific equipment issues are noted in this Official Rules of Disc Golf in sections 802.01 Discs Used in Play, 802.02 Mini Marker Discs and 802.03 Targets.

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Summary of Rules Changes Definitions of the basket and its components have been added to the Glossary so that we no longer have to use the phrase "entrapment section". The definition of holing out has been tightened up a bit. A putt that sticks in the side of the tray, or hangs outside the tray from one of the nubs, no longer counts. The hole has been completed once the disc has come to rest, not when the disc is removed. The "unplayable lie" rule has been reformulated into an "optional rethrow" rule. It is now clear that penalty strokes are not added if the rethrow option is taken, so that double jeopardy is avoided. The rules for a lie above ground have been changed to include a lie below ground (in a crevice or below a bridge, for example). The relief rules have been simplified. You can't move anything unless it's in your stance. If something is both in your stance and between your lie and the hole, you can move it. You can always ask people to move themselves or their stuff if they are in your way. The 5-meter relief rule has been extended to anywhere back along the line of play, and moved to the relief section. A director may designate a drop zone to be used for lost disc on a hole.

Project Credits Much appreciation is due the PDGA Rules Committee members who helped in this revision: Conrad Damon, Chair Peter Bygde (SWE) Gary Duke Harold Duvall Jim Garnett Shawn Sinclair Rick Voakes Layout and typesetting by Craig Dodds Suggestions for improvements to the next revision should be in writing and made to: Conrad Damon c/o International Disc Golf Center Wildwood Park 3828 Dogwood Lane Appling, GA 30802 rules@pdga.com Full copyright to this book and any iteration of its contents is reserved by the PDGA. Copies of this book are sold to cover costs of production and may be obtained from the PDGA office or at www.pdgastore.com. PDGA affiliated associations are permitted to translate these rules into their own language provided the rules are not altered or contradicted. The PDGA Executive Director must be notified of such translation and publication and must receive a copy. The PDGA is a non-profit organization under US IRC Section 501(c)(4) and its incorporated business office is located at: Alamo Corporate Center 102 S. Tejan Street, Suite 800 Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Outline of Contents

Section 1: Tournament Procedures 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 1.10 1.11 Player Eligibility Tournament Registration Withdraws and Refunds Event Check-In Practice Rounds and Beginning Play Grouping and Sectioning Suspension of Play Reduction of Field Size Tie Breakers Distribution of Prizes Officials

Section 3: Player Code of Conduct 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 General Pace of Play Player Misconduct Dress Code Carts and Caddies Tour Player Media and Sponsor Relations Tour Vendor Policies Tournament Director Rights and Responsibilities

Section 2: Division Qualifications 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 General Exceptions Reclassification Pros Playing Am Trophy Only

Copyright 2011 The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA)

Professional Disc Golf Association Revised January 1, 2011

PDGA Competition Manual

Introduction The PDGA Competition Manual outlines procedures and guidelines for PDGA events, and is to be used in conjunction with the Official Rules of Play and Tour Standards document. These procedures and guidelines are required for all PDGA sanctioned events unless specified otherwise. If a Tournament Director finds any provision in the document unacceptable a waiver may be requested by contacting the Tour Manager at tour@pdga.com or 706.261.6342.

The Spirit of the Game Disc golf is played, for the most part, without the supervision of a referee or umpire. The game relies on the integrity of the individual to show consideration for other players and to abide by the Rules. All players should conduct themselves in a disciplined manner, demonstrating courtesy and sportsmanship at all times, irrespective of how competitive they may be. This is the spirit of the game of disc golf.

Read more about the rules of disc golf at www.pdga.com

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Section 1:Tournament Procedures

1.1 Player Eligibility A. All members in good standing of the PDGA are eligible to compete in any division for which they qualify based upon class (Professional or Amateur), age, sex, and player rating unless approved in advance by the PDGA Tour Manager. Please see Section 2: Division Qualification for more specific information on division eligibility. B. Current PDGA Membership is required to compete in any Major, Elite Series/National Tour, or SuperTour (A Tier) event. C. In all other PDGA sanctioned events, players who are not current members may compete by paying a non-member fee. This fee is required for all players except players competing in a Junior division. 1.2 Tournament Registration A. Pre-registration is required for PDGA Major & Elite Series/National Tour events and strongly suggested for all other tier events. B. A player is officially entered in the event when their entry fee is received at the tournament address. C. All openings in the field of play will be filled on a first come-first serve basis, until the allocated places have been filled. D. The order of entries received will be according to the postmark of the package containing the entry fee payment.

E. Entries received via an on-line entry method shall be date and time-stamped based on the actual time the entry fee is received at the on-line entry point. F. In the event that multiple entries are received simultaneously, the player with the lowest PDGA number shall have priority. G. Posting of the pre-registration list on pdga.com is required for Major & Elite Series/National Tour events and strongly suggested for all tier events. 1.3 Withdraws and Refunds A. A player may officially withdraw only by contacting the Tournament Director. B. Players must email or phone their withdrawals to the Tournament Director only at the contact information posted. C. Discussions with persons other than the Tournament Director, including other tournament staff, shall not be considered official. D. No refunds will be issued after the 7th day prior to the start of the event, but the player shall be sent a players package if one was provided to event competitors. E. Withdrawals made before the 7th day prior to the start of the event shall receive a 50% refund. F. Withdrawals made 14 days prior to the start of the event shall be refunded 100 %, less postage and handling, which shall not exceed 10% of the entry fee.

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G. These criteria may be relaxed at the discretion of the Tournament Director. 1.4 Event Check-In A. Pre tournament check-in is required for Major & Elite Series/National Tour events and suggested for all other tier events. B. Any player who does not check-in by the time specified by the TD shall forfeit their official place and entry fee. Exceptions will be made only at the sole discretion of the Tournament Director. 1.5 Practice Rounds and Beginning Play A. A player is responsible for scheduling their practice rounds prior to the event. Availability of the course and its tournament set-up for practice rounds may vary (see Tour Standards for details). The course or courses are closed to practice during the tournament and all other times designated by the Tournament Director. B. Two types of starts will be used to begin competitive play: (1) Shotgun Starts (rounds where several groups start simultaneously): At a scheduled time, scorecard(s) shall be distributed to the player listed first on each hole. After the cards have been distributed, groups shall be given adequate time to reach their assigned teeing areas. A loud noisemaker, such as an air horn, shall be used to indicate that there are two minutes remaining until tee off. This signal shall be a series of short blasts. At this time, players are to end practice and all practice shots and move promptly to their teeing areas. A throw by a player between the two minute signal and

the start of the round shall receive a warning if observed by two or more players or an official. After being warned, subsequent throws by the player during this period, if observed by two or more players or an official, shall result in one penalty throw added to the player's score, regardless of the number of throws. An extended blast of the noisemaker begins the round and signals the scorekeepers to call the throwing orders. If a player is not present to throw when it is his or her turn, the scorekeeper shall allow 30 seconds. If the player has not thrown after the 30 seconds has elapsed, a score of par plus four is to be entered for that hole. This procedure continues on any subsequent holes for which a player is absent. No holes shall be replayed. If a complete round is missed, or if a player does not finish a round, the player may, at the discretion of the director, be disqualified. (2) Staggered Starts (rounds where groups start one after another on a certain hole): The player shall start at the time announced by the director. Players may practice until their group prepares to tee off provided their practice doesnot distract players on the course. If a player is not present to throw when it is his or her turn, the scorekeeper shall allow 30 seconds. If the player has not thrown by then, a score of par plus four is to be entered for that hole. This procedure continues on any subsequent tee offs for which a player is absent. No holes shall be replayed. If a complete round is missed, or if a player does not finish a round, the player may, at the discretion of the director, be disqualified.

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C. It is the sole responsibility of the player to be at the course, ready to play in time for the start of their round. 1.6 Grouping and Sectioning A. Professional and Amateur players should not be grouped together, and players competing in different divisions should be segregated from each other during play as much as practicable. B. All players within a division for the first round should be grouped via two methods: (1) Random grouping; players within a division may be randomly grouped for the first round. (2) Player Rating grouping; players within a division may use player rating to set first round groups. Highest rated player starting on the lowest number hole, the second highest rated player starting on the following hole, etc. This process would continue until all starting holes have been filled. C. To promote fairness, groups shall not be less than three players, except under extenuating circumstances, as deemed necessary by the director. In cases where fewer than three players are required to play together players, an official is required to accompany the group and may play as long as this does not interfere with the competing players. D. Groups shall not be more than five players and should be limited to four players whenever possible.

E. When there are more entrants than can play together in one round, the field of competitors may be split into sections or pools. F. If conditions differently affect play among sections, the director may consider using a sectioning procedure to determine advancement. Under this procedure, a proportionate number of advancing players would be taken from each section by score and their scores would not be carried forward. 1.7 Suspension of Play A. If, in the opinion of the director, excessive rain or hazardous conditions exist that make it impractical or dangerous to continue play, the tournament shall be suspended. The signal to suspend play shall be the same as the signal to start. B. Players shall immediately stop play and mark the lie of each member of the group. A natural object is sufficient to mark the approximate lie from which the player shall resume play. Players shall then return to the first teeing area, clubhouse, tournament central or area designated by the director. C. Players shall resume play from their approximate lies as established when the round was halted. The approximate lie is determined by a majority of the group. D. The director may allow players to take a break while waiting for weather to improve, but may require players to return at a time assigned by the director until play resumes or until the round is postponed.

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E. The director may postpone the incomplete portion of the round for a later date if, in the director's opinion, the conditions will not improve or if darkness will fall prior to the projected finish time. F. Partial round scores shall be carried forward to the completion of the round whenever the round is resumed. G. A player who stops playing before a signal to stop has been given shall receive two penalty throws if, in the opinion of the director, the player stopped playing prematurely. H. The Tournament Director will make every effort to complete all rounds of the tournament as scheduled. (1) If a total of 54 holes or fewer holes are scheduled. All players must complete a minimum of 18 holes for the event to be considered official. (2) If a total of 72 holes are scheduled. All players must complete a minimum of 36 holes for the event to be considered official. (3) If these criteria are not met, all efforts will be made to reschedule the event. If rescheduling is impossible, a full refund will be issued minus players package, PDGA, and other associated event fees. I. Based upon course availability, and if less than one half of the field needs to complete a round necessary to declare the event official, the tournament may be completed the day after the final round was scheduled. All suspended rounds shall be completed, unless conditions exist that make it impossible. If such conditions exist, the results shall be final

as of the last completed round as long as the necessary hole requirements are met. J. The completion of a suspended round is a higher priority than a future round and thus future rounds shall be canceled in order to complete a suspended round. 1.8 Reduction of Field Size A. The field may be cut for a semi finals or finals at the discretion of the Tournament Director, provided this is announced well in advance of the event. B. Unless announced in advance by the Tournament Director all ties for a semi final or final cut will be broken by the use of a tiebreaker. (See Section 1.9). C. Making the cut line at or above the cash line is highly recommended. D. Any eligible player who chooses not to participate in a semi final or final shall receive cash or prizes equal to finishing last in the appropriate cut. 1.9 Tie Breakers A. Between rounds when the groups are being reset, tied positions shall be broken. The player with the lowest score in the most recent round shall have the highest ranking when the scorecards/positions are reset. In the event of ties for lowest score, the ties shall be broken by the director through a consistently applied manner. B. Final ties for first place in any division or for the reduction of field size must be broken by sudden death play. Sudden death play shall begin with hole number one unless a different hole or series of holes is

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designated by the Tournament Director prior to the start of the tournament. C. First place cash/prize must be awarded to the division winner and listed in the event results. Cash or prizes may not be evenly split between any players tied for first place. D. Final ties for other ranks shall be officially recorded as ties. Prize money distribution to tied players (other than for first place) shall be determined by adding the total money allocated to the number of positions represented by the tied players and dividing that by the number of players tied. Trophy distribution for ties may be determined by sudden death play or by any related disc golf skill event determined by the director. 1.10 Distribution of Prizes A. Any prizes (money or merchandise) declined by a player must pass down to the next finishing position. (Example: If a player placing third declines his prize, the player in fourth place will receive third place prize, the player in fifth will receive fourth place prize, etc.) Tournaments are allowed to retain prizes that have been declined by all players within a division only after the declined prizes have been passed through all finishing positions. B. The usage of skins (and other similar formats) is permitted at PDGA events but scores are not allowed to determine a players overall standing in the event and prizes are not credited towards a players winnings.

C. Any prizes that a player has earned will be distributed at the completion of the event once the results have been tabulated and verified. (1) Tournament Directors may award prizes earlier at their discretion. (2) Players who leave before the official distribution of prizes do not relinquish their winnings but are responsible for any associated shipping costs. 1.11 Officials A. To be eligible to serve as an official, an individual must be a current PDGA member and have demonstrated knowledge of the rules by passing the PDGA Official's Exam. Upon significant changes to the Rules of Play, the PDGA Board of Directors may require officials to pass an updated Official's Exam to retain certification as an official. B. Directors are required to pass the Official's Exam. C. Each official must pass the PDGA Officials Exam, and must carry a copy of the rules. D. Non-playing certified officials may actively make rulings during any tournament play that they witness. If an official competes in a tournament, he or she may not officiate for any ruling within his or her own division. The official's ruling supersedes the ruling of the group, but an appeal may be made to the tournament director. The director may empower non-certified officials to act as spotters for a specific purpose. The ruling of such a spotter supersedes the ruling of the group.

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Section 2: Division Qualifications

2.1 General A. Players are not allowed to enter a division for which they are ineligible. Please see The Table of PDGA Tour Player Divisions for specifics. B. A player is solely responsible for knowing what division(s) they are eligible to compete in. Entry into an ineligible division may result in disqualification from the event and/ or suspension from PDGA events. C: Players are allowed to compete in only one division per event unless the event has divisions competing on a different day or weekend and is listed as two distinct entries in the PDGA calendar. D. A player must properly identify themselves when competing in a PDGA sanctioned event. Players who wish to remain anonymous or who assume a false identity will be disqualified from the event and face potential suspension from the PDGA tour. E. Professional players entering into a Professional division compete for money and Amateur players entering into a Professional division may accept merchandise in lieu of cash. F. Players entering into an Amateur division compete for trophies and/or prizes. G. Female players may compete in male divisions if they wish, but male players may not compete in female divisions.

H. A player registered as an Amateur may compete in any Pro division for which they are eligible based on age and sex. I. A player registered as a Professional may only compete in Amateur divisions in select cases. (See Section 2.4 for specifics) J. A Tournament Director may, by giving adequate public notice, restrict the divisions offered. Absent such notice, the director shall offer for competition any division which has four or more players that are eligible and wishing to compete. Tournament Directors may offer divisions with less than four players at their discretion. K. All Bump rules are invalid and not allowed at PDGA sanctioned events. Players shall be allowed to play in any divisions they might be eligible for, if those divisions are offered by the Tournament Director. 2.2 Exceptions A. Players are allowed to enter a ratings based division they would otherwise be ineligible to participate only under the following circumstances (1) If approved before the event by the PDGA Tour Manager. (2) Players who have become ineligible for a division due to a ratings update may participate for two weeks following the update, provided they are pre-registered for the event in question, at the discretion of the TD. (3) If competing in an applicable points series (see Section 2.2 B for specifics)

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B. Players may be allowed to enter a ratings based division they would otherwise be ineligible to participate in as part of a points Series provided that (1) The Series Director has contacted the PDGA prior and received approval from the PDGA Tour Manager. (2) The Series allows players to stay in the division for the entire Series. (3) The player has not competed in a higher division at any time during the Series. (4) The players rating does not exceed 20 points above the rating ceiling for the division they wish to compete in. 2.3 Reclassification A. Professional to Amateur (1) Players registered with the PDGA as Professionals may petition the Tour Manager for reclassification back to Amateur. B. Amateur to Professional (1) An Amateur wishing to change their classification to Professional may do so by contacting the PDGA office and requesting a Pro card. (2) An Am player is automatically re-classified as Pro when the player has accepted cash while competing in a Pro division. Accepting prizes in lieu of cash or accepting money for winning an ancillary contest such as an ace pool does not cause a player to relinquish his or her amateur status.

2.4 Pros Playing Am A. Pros rated less than 970 may now compete in Amateur divisions offered at PDGA A, B, and C Tier events, for which they qualify based on player rating, age, and sex. (1) Pro Men and Women <970 can play Advanced (MA1) <935 can play Intermediate (MA2) <900 can play Recreational (MA3) <850 can play Novice (MA4) <935 can play Advanced Master (MM1) if they are of Masters age <900 can play Advanced Grandmaster (MG1) if they are of Grandmasters age (2) Pro Women only <850 can play Advanced Women (FW1) <800 can play Intermediate Women(FW2) <750 can play Recreational Women (FW3) B. Players are awarded Amateur points for their performance but these points are not eligible for year-end awards or Worlds invitations. 2.5 Trophy Only A. At the option of the TD, Amateur players are allowed to play in Pro divisions for which they are eligible according to age and sex at a reduced entry fee. B. At the option of the TD, Pro or Am players may compete for trophies only in any Amateur division offered by an event that their player rating, age and sex qualifies them for, by paying a reduced entry fee. C. Players competing under Trophy Only are not allowed to accept cash or prizes based upon finish but are allowed to accept trophies.

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D. Players paying full price should have priority over players paying the reduced rate. If an event or division is full, a TD may require trophy only players to pay the full price in order to maintain their position in the tournament.

Section 3: Player Code of Conduct

3.1 General A. All PDGA members should refrain from any conduct which is detrimental to the game of disc golf and to the PDGA, both on and off of the course. B. All players must abide by the PDGA Official Rules of Disc Golf and the PDGA Competition Manual. C. Players are not permitted to have audible mobile phones or audible pagers on the course during any competitive round. In addition, personal music players and other devices must be used exclusively with personal headphones and the volume must be kept at a level so as not to be heard by other players. D. Animals, with the exception of service animals, may not accompany players during competition. E. All players will be required to take and pass an online tournament rules assessment test before being able to compete in any Elite Series/National Tour or Major PDGA sanctioned event. This test will be based upon the PDGA Official Rules of Disc Golf and the PDGA Competition Manual.

F. The PDGA reserves the right to determine and enforce further disciplinary action upon its players and members, which may result in probation or suspension from PDGA sanctioned events or permanent loss of PDGA membership. For more information on the PDGA disciplinary policies and procedures, see the documents posted at www.pdga.com/ discipline. 3.2 Pace of Play A. All competitors shall play without undue delay and will make every effort to keep up with the group in front of them. Players are required to quickly move from the completion of one hole to the tee area of the next hole. Also, while advancing down the fairway, the player shall not unduly delay play by his or her actions. B. A player causing undue delays may be issued an excessive time violation by tournament officials. Please see PDGA Rules of Play 801.03B Excessive Time regarding specific penalties. 3.3 Player Misconduct A. The PDGA adopts a strict policy of appropriate behavior and comments to the media. Any conduct deemed to be unprofessional is subject to disqualification by the Tournament Director, and may also be subject to further disciplinary actions from the PDGA. B. Players are expected to behave in a professional and sportsmanlike manner while participating in a PDGA sanctioned event. Actions that are in violation of this conduct include but are not limited to:

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(1) Repeated and overt use of abusive or profane language (2) Throwing items in anger (other than discs in play) (3) Overt rudeness to anyone present (4) Willful and overt destruction, abuse or vandalism of property, including animal and plant life (5) Cheating: a willful attempt to circumvent the rules of play (6) Physical attacks or threatening behavior to anyone present (7) Activities which are in violation of Federal, State or Local laws or ordinances, park regulation or disc golf course rule. Directors are granted the discretion to disqualify a player based on the severity of the offending conduct. An official warning of disqualification may be issued by a director where appropriate. (8) The possession of illegal substances in violation of Federal, State or Local laws. (9) Excessive use of alcohol at the tournament site. (10) Possession of alcohol from the start of play until the players scorecard is submitted. Such possession shall result in immediate disqualification at PDGA events sanctioned at B-Tier or higher. The Tournament Director may, at his sole discretion, elect to issue a warning to the offending player in lieu of disqualification solely at

PDGA events sanctioned at C-tier and below. If a player has been previously issued a warning for alcohol possession at the same event, all subsequent violations shall result in immediate disqualification. (11) Overt failure or refusal to enforce the rules of disc golf during competition. (12) Failure or refusal to cooperate with, or obstruction of any investigation by an official into the competitors conduct or the conduct of another competitors. (13) Deliberately seeking to manipulate ones player rating through intentional misplay or withdrawal. C. Tournament Directors are required to report any disqualifications to the PDGA as quickly as possible. D. Disqualified players shall forfeit any prize money or merchandise and shall not receive a refund of entry fees. E. Players who commit Player Misconduct may also be subject to disciplinary actions. To find out more information about the Disciplinary Process please visit www.pdga. com/discipline. 3.4 Dress Code A. All violations of the Dress Code Policy shall be considered a Courtesy Violation under Section 801.01 of the PDGA Official Rules of Play. B. All competitors and staff are required to wear a shirt.

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C. All competitors and staff are required to wear shoes or other foot coverings. Players will not be allowed to play in bare feet. Sandals or slides are allowed. D. The following dress code for all competitors will be enforced at all PDGA Elite Series/ National Tour and Major Events. The PDGA also recommends that this dress code be enforced at Super Tour and lower tier events, but this decision lies solely with the Tournament Director: (1) All players in PDGA sanctioned competition and tournament staff are expected to dress appropriately and to maintain a clean and well-groomed appearance at all event sites and associated functions. (2) All players must wear a shirt covering their upper chest area. A well-tailored shirt with a fold-down, mock turtle, v-neck, crew neck, Henley, or zippered collar, and with sleeves covering the part of the arm from the shoulder to the elbow (commonly known as the upper arm), shall be considered acceptable. Women are also allowed to wear sleeveless shirts as designated above. (3) No tee shirts will be allowed, except for competitors in the Junior and Amateur divisions during preliminary rounds only. Juniors and Amateurs shall not wear tee shirts during semifinal or final rounds. Crew neck or v-neck shirts made of highperformance or high-tech materials, such as Dry-Fit, Cool-Max, and others will be allowed. (4) Shirts that hang down lower than the bottom hemline on the players shorts shall be tucked in.

(5) No ripped shirts, shorts, pants will be allowed on the course. This includes unhemmed, torn or cut vents at the shirt collar. (6) No offensive, profane, or obscene slogans or logos shall be allowed on any clothing. Junior players may not wear slogans or logos referring to alcohol or tobacco. (7) This dress code will be in effect from start to finish at each event, including all tournament rounds. (8) Players who do not make a cut, but wish to remain on site through the duration of the tournament, will be considered spectators and will not be required to conform to the Tours dress code. 3.5 Carts and Caddies A. Players are required to walk during their tournament rounds at all PDGA events unless alternate transportation such as golf carts are provided to all competitors B. Players will have the option to bring a caddie or carrying device during their round of play. A players caddie is subject to all items with in the PDGA Rules of Play and the PDGA Competition Manual including all applicable dress codes. C. Players choosing to use a caddie will be solely responsible for their caddies conduct from the two minute warning until the players cards are turned in. Misconduct by a caddie may subject the player and caddy to disqualification and/or suspension. D. Players must instruct their caddies to

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maintain a reasonable distance and not interfere with a competitor attempting his or her shot. E. For those players wishing to use a carrying device, approved carrying devices include disc golf bags, foldable chairs and push cart companions. No animals, motor driven or bicycle type devices shall be allowed at all PDGA events. 3.6 Tour Player Media and Sponsor Relations A. All participants agree that the PDGA and its agents may publish photographs and other kinds of images of their participation at PDGA sanctioned events. B. All players at PDGA Elite Series/National Tour and Major events are requested to be available to any and all media while on site except during or within 30 minutes of the start of a competitive round. 3.7 Tour Vendor Policies A. The Tournament Director may refuse to allow any vendor access to the tournament venue and its environs at their discretion. B. If applicable, sponsors/vendors are responsible for obtaining the required permits from the appropriate agencies/ jurisdictions and must make permits available to the Tournament Director upon request. C. Failure to comply with this policy by a vendor may result in further disciplinary actions by the PDGA.

3.8 Tournament Director Rights and Responsibilities The PDGA recognizes that the strength of the organization and stainability of tournament golf is reliant on the partnership between the PDGA and the Tournament Director. In order to help the Tournament Director to better perform their job, the PDGA has endowed them with certain rights. The Tournament Director also has responsibilities to the PDGA and its players, including but not limited to the following: A. Any qualified PDGA member interested in running a PDGA sanctioned event may be required to take and pass an online tournament procedures assessment test before being able to direct that event. This test will be based upon the PDGA Rules of Play and Competition Manual. B. All Tournament Directors may be required to sign a statement acknowledging that they have read the PDGA Rules of Play and Competition Manual, and agree to abide by and enforce its contents before being able to direct any PDGA sanctioned event. C. Tournament Directors must disclose the financial information on their tournaments as listed in the PDGA Sanctioning Agreement. However, beyond the PDGA required disclosures, any additional release of tournament related financial information is solely at the discretion of the Tournament Director. D. Tournament Directors may not refuse service to anyone on the basis of discrimination reflecting race, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation and or religion.

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E. Tournament Directors must abide by active PDGA player disciplinary actions. F. Any issues that may arise during a tournament, whether or not covered in any existing PDGA document, including allegations of abuse of responsibilities by a Tournament Director, may be brought to the attention of the PDGA through the PDGA Disciplinary Process.

Full copyright to this book and any iterations of its contents is reserved by the PDGA. Copies of this book are sold to cover costs of production and may be obtained from the PDGA office or at www.pdgastore.com. The PDGA is a nonprofit organization under US IRC Section 501 (c)(4) and its incorporated business office is located at: Alamo Corporate Center 102 S. Tejan Street, Suite 800 Colorado Springs, CO 80903 First edition of the PDGA Competition Manual was made in January 2007. Second edition of the PDGA Competition Manual was made in January 2010. Third edition of the PDGA Competition Manual was made in January 2011 2011 PDGA Professional Disc Golf Association.

PDGA Administrative Offices:

International Disc Golf Center 3828 Dogwood Lane Appling, GA 30802 www.pdga.com www.pdgastore.com office@pdga.com 706.261.6342 706.261. 6347 (FAX)