Disc Golf Rules 101: Everything Recreational Players Need To Know

Disc Golf is a simple game to learn. The rules are very similar to traditional golf, just with discs instead of balls. This guide is an all-encompassing book of disc golf rules also known as frisbee golf.

The Objective of The Game

Similar to traditional golf, disc golf is played by throwing a disc toward a target. However, instead of clubs and balls, players use specially designed discs of various weights and shapes. Each throw is counted as a stroke, and the goal is to complete every hole in the fewest strokes possible. Although courses may vary, they typically include obstacles such as trees and bodies of water that add another layer of challenge. Best of all, disc golf can be played for much cheaper – all you need is a set of discs and access to a course (many parks have free courses available).

Tee Throws

For each hole, you must start by throwing the tee. Tee throws must always originate from within or behind the specially-designated tee area.

Fairway Throws

Throws made from behind the line must be fairway throws. The player is allowed a normal follow-through and run-up after release unless the lie is within 10 meters of the target. If the shot is within 10 meters of the target, then the player must maintain balance and not move past the lie until the disc comes to rest.

Mandatory/ Mando

Mandatories, or mandos, are designated trees or poles in the fairway that must be passed to the correct side as indicated by an arrow. If the disc passes to the wrong side of a mandatory, either play from the previous lie or from a marked drop zone area if applicable and add a one-throw penalty.

Completion of a Hole

A hole is finished when the disc hits the bottom or chains of a basket in disc golf.

Unplayable Lie

The lie is where the player’s last throw landed. Mark each lie with a mini marker disc or leave the thrown disc on the ground where it landed. Then, make the next throw from directly behind that marked spot.

Out of Bounds

If you can see any part of the O.B. area between the disc and O.B. line, then the disc is considered out of bounds (O.B.). A throw that lands out of bounds must be played from a point up to 1 meter inbounds from where it crossed over the boundary line into O.B. Permanent water hazards, public roads, and most park boundaries are almost always classified as Out of Bounds areas.

Throwing Order

The player who needed the fewest strokes on the previous hole tees off first on the next hole. Once all players have tee’d off, whoever is farthest from the hole throws next.

Disc Golf Course Courtesy

1. Be silent and still when others are throwing to avoid any unnecessary movement.
2. Until the player throwing the Frisbee completes their throw, stand behind them.
3. Act as a teacher to players who are just starting out.
4. Allow faster groups to pass you when possible.
5. Please throw any trash away in the nearest garbage can.
6. Do not alter the course in any way.