The Putting GreenThe line of a putt may be pointed out by the player, partner or either of their caddies prior to the stroke being made. The surface of the green on the line of the putt must not be touched except to brush aside or remove loose impediments, placing a ball marker, repairing pitch marks and in the acts of measuring or lifting a ball. Also, no marks may be placed to indicate the line of the putt. Balls lying on the putting surface may be lifted and cleaned as long as the position of the ball has been previously marked. Players may not test the surface of the green during the play of a hole. Spike marks may not be repaired during the play of a hole. When playing a stroke on the green the player incurs a penalty if the ball strikes the flagstick. Loose impediments may be removed on the putting green. If the ball is moved as a result of removing the loose impediment, no penalty is incurred but the ball must be replaced. Sand and soil are considered to be loose impediments on the green and can therefore be removed.
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