---
title: "Golf Etiquette Manual Outlines Standards for Play in Florence and Beyond"
url: https://www.hereflorence.com/2026/08/07/golf-etiquette-manual-outlines-standards-play/
date: 2026-08-07T09:38:43+00:00
modified: 2026-08-07T09:38:43+00:00
author: "Natasha Weiss"
categories: ["National"]
site: "HERE Florence"
attribution: "HERE Florence"
---

# Golf Etiquette Manual Outlines Standards for Play in Florence and Beyond

*Source: [HERE Florence](https://www.hereflorence.com/2026/08/07/golf-etiquette-manual-outlines-standards-play/) — August 7, 2026 by Natasha Weiss*

A golf course etiquette manual, last updated in March 2013, provides foundational guidelines for players, emphasizing principles designed to improve player enjoyment, maintain course conditions, and ensure safety during rounds. The manual, titled “A Golf Course Etiquette Manual,” addresses various aspects of the game, from pre-play preparation to on-course conduct.

One of the primary areas of focus is the dress code. The manual advises golfers to verify specific dress standards with their chosen course in advance of play. When uncertainty exists, a collared shirt paired with slacks is presented as an appropriate and generally accepted attire. Conversely, the manual explicitly states that jeans, tank tops, short shorts, and T-shirts should be avoided on the course, reflecting traditional golf attire expectations.

Mobile phone use is another area covered, with guidance recommending that devices be set to vibrate when permitted on a course. The manual notes that many private golf clubs and even some public facilities implement restrictions or outright prohibitions on mobile phone use, underscoring the need for players to be aware of individual course policies.

Preparation before a round is also highlighted. The manual suggests that golfers allocate five to 15 minutes for advance preparation before their scheduled tee time, ensuring they are ready to play when called to the first tee. During play, a key point of etiquette involves remaining motionless and quiet while other golfers are making their strokes, a practice intended to prevent distractions and show respect for fellow players.

Pace of play is a critical component of golf etiquette, affecting the experience of all groups on the course. The manual indicates that most 18-hole courses can typically be completed in four hours or less by a group of four golfers, provided that groups maintain an appropriate pace. It also specifies a maximum search time of five minutes for a lost ball under the cited rules, a measure designed to prevent undue delays.

Safety protocols are clearly outlined to protect all individuals on the course. Players are instructed not to hit their ball until golfers ahead are well out of range, minimizing the risk of accidental injury. In instances where a ball in motion might potentially strike someone, the manual advises players to immediately shout “FORE!” as a warning.

Maintaining the condition of the golf course is presented as a shared responsibility. The manual details several key practices for course care, including the replacement of divots, the raking of bunkers after use, and the repair of ball marks on the greens. Additionally, it advises golfers to keep golf carts a safe distance from greens and tees, preventing damage to these sensitive areas of the course. Adherence to these guidelines contributes to the overall quality and longevity of the playing surface for everyone in Florence and the surrounding Pee Dee region.

### Why it matters in Florence

For golfers in Florence, understanding and adhering to established etiquette is crucial for preserving the quality of local courses and ensuring an enjoyable experience for all players. Facilities such as those potentially associated with Freedom Florence, which offers various recreational opportunities, or even informal groups playing at public courses, benefit from a shared understanding of these guidelines. The principles outlined in the “A Golf Course Etiquette Manual” contribute to maintaining the integrity of the game and the condition of playing surfaces, fostering a respectful environment for individuals who enjoy golf in Florence and across Florence County. These standards help ensure that the region’s golf amenities remain welcoming and well-maintained for residents and visitors alike, reflecting a commitment to the sport’s traditions and community enjoyment.