Can I ground my club in a fairway (sand) bunker? Yes and No
Yes:
· Digging in with feet to take a stance for a practice swing or the stroke
· Smoothing the sand to care for the course
· Placing clubs, equipment, rake etc. in the bunker
· Leaning on a club to rest, stay balanced or prevent a fall
· Striking the sand in frustration or anger
No:
· Deliberately touching the sand with a hand, club, rake or other object to test the condition of the sand
· Touch the sand in the bunker with a club in the area right in front or right behind the ball
· In making a practice swing
· In making the backswing for a stroke.
Rule 12.2 Rules of golf Updated Jan. 2023