What can we include in a Code of Conduct?

23 July 2026

In the latest piece outlining how clubs can set standards of player behaviour, we look at what can – and can’t – be built into a Code of Conduct

How far can a Code of Conduct go? Can you use it to alter the Rules of Golf to better suit your club and course?

Last time out, we looked at what a Code of Conduct is for and how to establish such a document. Now, having made the decision to do so, there are a number of dos and don’ts to consider.

There are allowed and prohibited uses for a Code, as set out in the Committee Procedures found in the Official Guide to the Rules of Golf and on The R&A’s website.

What’s allowed?

Specific details of “unacceptable behaviour that a player may be penalised for during a round”. These can include not raking bunkers or replacing divots, unacceptable language, abuse of clubs or the course.
Banning players from entering no play zones.
Deciding what is acceptable clothing.
Setting limitations on how social media can be used.

What’s not allowed?

A Code of Conduct can’t change penalties in the Rules of Golf. An example given is “increasing the penalty for a player who fails to mark their ball before lifting it on the putting green from one stroke to two”.
Introducing new penalties for “actions unrelated to player behaviour”. The Committee Procedures give the example of sanctioning a player who hits a ball over properties that are out of bounds.
Penalising a player for a breach of a spectator code by their family or supporters, “such as by penalising a player when a family member walks on the fairway in a junior competition when they are not allowed to do so”.
Applying stroke penalties for behaviour that happens in between rounds. This doesn’t stop a committee from taking a player out of the competition or not allowing them to enter future events.

Next time, we will consider how penalties apply and examine the model penalty structure recommended by The R&A.

Key Takeaways

A Code of Conduct can set expectations in all kinds of areas but it cannot alter the Rules of Golf or introduce different penalties for Rules breaches
Committees can address issues like language, dress standards, social media use and course care
Committees can still retain disciplinary powers outside the Code – and it can be seen as a key plank of a wider disciplinary framework

By GCMA Content Team

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John Steele is a former professional athlete, sports coach, Olympic Leader and is the Executive Director of Sport at Loughborough University. He has been Chief Executive across a range of sectors. Drawing on leadership experience of nine different Olympic and Paralympic Games (including the amazing events at the Rio Games), John reflects on the lessons from this unique period in British sport and relays his fascinating views on creating high performing teams.

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