Who Regulates Golf Courses

The principal governing body that regulates golf courses is the United States Golf Association (USGA). The USGA works to promote the growth of the game, as well as protect the game's traditional values and rules. They provide research and development initiatives, create guidelines for golf facilities, coordinate championships, and produce a Rules of Golf manual for governing golfing activities. The USGA is an independent, nonprofit organization and is not affiliated with any particular golf course or organization. This allows it to remain unbiased and maintain fairness in golf. The USGA also creates standards for golf courses, including criteria for the size, shape, length, and design of courses. These standards are used to ensure golf courses are fair and playable for golfers of all skill levels. Additionally, USGA works with local and state government officials to approve and license golf courses within their jurisdiction. Other organizations in the golfing community, such as touring professionals, national and regional organizations and private clubs, may also have an impact on how golf courses are managed. These entities often have their own rules or guidelines they expect a course to follow and can provide additional oversight.