Tampa Junior Tour – Rules & Guidelines (2026)

1. Rules

  • All play follows the 2026 USGA Rules of Golf and local rules adopted by the Tampa Junior Tour.
  • Golf relies on integrity, sportsmanship, and courtesy. Ask a Tour official if unsure about a ruling or use two balls under Rule 3.3.

2. Starting Times

  • Arrive 10 minutes early and be ready to play.
  • Up to 5 minutes late: 2-stroke penalty.
  • More than 5 minutes late: disqualification.

3. Maximum Score

  • 9-hole events: double par maximum per hole. Pick up once reached.
  • 18-hole events: no limit unless specified by local rule.

4. Distance Measuring Devices

  • Only optical rangefinders are allowed.
  • Devices measuring slope, wind, or other conditions are prohibited.
  • Penalties: 1st offense – 2 strokes, 2nd – disqualification.

5. Caddies

  • Ages 12 & under may have caddies.
  • Ages 13+ may not use caddies.

6. Pace of Play

  • Play without undue delay; shots should take ≤40 seconds.
  • Falling behind the group ahead may result in warnings, stroke penalties, or disqualification.

7. Out of Bounds & Penalty Areas

  • Out of bounds: white stakes, fence posts, white lines, or public roads.
  • Penalty areas: red stakes or lines; relief follows USGA rules.

8. Embedded Balls & Ground Under Repair

  • Relief allowed for embedded balls in the General Area.
  • Ground Under Repair includes marked areas, fire ant mounds, French drains, and flower beds.

9. Suspensions

  • Stop play immediately for dangerous conditions.
  • Seek shelter and follow Tour staff directions.
  • Players may suspend play at their discretion in severe weather, then report to a Tour official.

10. Conduct & Dress

  • Players must show good sportsmanship.
  • Acceptable golf attire only: no denim, gym shorts, swimwear, or tank tops.
  • Violations: stroke penalties, disqualification, or denial of future events.

11. Spectators

  • Must stay 30 yards away and may not give advice or use electronics.
  • Carts allowed at course discretion.

12. Withdrawals & Refunds

  • Cancel before registration closes: full refund or transfer to another event.
  • Cancel after registration closes: no refund, transfer allowed.
  • No show: no refund.

13. Official Results

  • Results are official once all scorecards are signed, attested, and approved by the Tour Committee.

14. Committee Rights

The Tampa Junior Tour Committee may modify rules before any event.