Is looking for stray golf balls on a private course allowed?
Filed in Golf Talk on Oct.27, 2011
I was wondering if it is legal to look for stray golf balls in the woods of my local golf course after golfing hours (8-9 o’clock) and if it is legal if I would have to talk to the Pro or what? Do most golf courses have people they hire to do these sorts of things? Also any tips?
October 27th, 2011 at 11:26 pm
If caught , you would be asked to leave, if caught again you might be charged with trespassing
October 28th, 2011 at 12:08 am
I used to do it at the golf course I worked at. It’s amazing how many you can find. I say just do it … apologize later if you’re caught!
October 28th, 2011 at 12:29 am
I doubt it because that would probably be considered as trespassing. I have done that before without any problems. In fact, I used to take my girlfriend on walks around the golf course at night. Just be a little discrete.
October 28th, 2011 at 12:37 am
Talk to the groundskeeper not the pro… and chances are he probably will let you do it as long as you keep the course in perfect condition
October 28th, 2011 at 1:13 am
All the courses I’ve worked at did not allow people to do this unless they were members or kids of members. The public coming off the street just get in the way of the golfers and grounds crew.
October 28th, 2011 at 1:14 am
My dad did it twice and did not get caught, but I will say this. Bring a big bucket cause you will need it.
October 28th, 2011 at 1:20 am
I think the word “private” answers your question. It’s private property so unless you’re a member of that club stay off. It’s pretty much self definitive.
Go to a public course and do your ball hawking. No one would care there.
October 28th, 2011 at 1:25 am
If you ask they will say no. Try not to get caught.
October 28th, 2011 at 1:39 am
Private means no trespassing. But if it is a semi-private course, then why not pay for a round and ball hawk during the round! You can practice slicing the ball into the woods, blame it on a terrible back swing, or blame it on bad golf clubs. Then go into the woods with deep pockets.
You can keep shouting “Found It”, then “Oops, not mine”. Always look on the right side of the fairway, since most golfers slice right.
You might even find enough balls to pay for the round.