DRAINAGE GRILLS IN BUNKERS SHOULD BE TREATED AS IMMOVABLE OBSTRUCTIONS AND RELEIF CAN BE TAKEN UNDER RULE 24-2 (b) IN ADDITION THE BALL MAY BE PLACED RULE 20-3 (b)(iii) RATHER THAN DROPPED.
Interpretation For Clarity
When your stance or lie is interfered with by a bunker drainage grill, the ball must be lifted (not cleaned) and reinstated (placed), nearest point of relief, not nearer the hole, within 1 club length rule 24-2 (b). In addition rule 20-3 (b)(iii) allows the ball to be placed in position most similar to its original lie (not dropped).
Competitions Committee
April 5th 2014