Red Stakes

Boundary markers that designate lateral penalty areas (formerly lateral water hazards) on golf courses, indicating areas where special relief options apply when balls enter these hazards. Red stakes mark penalty areas that run approximately parallel to the line of play, offering different relief options than regular penalty areas marked by yellow stakes. Players have multiple relief options from lateral penalty areas, including dropping within two club lengths of where the ball entered the hazard. Understanding red stake procedures is essential for minimizing penalty strokes and maintaining competitive play when balls enter these hazards.