Golf courses cleared to reopen with restrictions in Massachusetts

BOSTON — Golf courses in Massachusetts are allowed to reopen starting Thursday morning after a post from the state government outlined the restrictions they must observe.

Golfers have been vocal about wanting to get back on the course and some have even been charged for taking to the course despite the closure.

The state posted the following restrictions for golf course operation:

Golf courses are not essential businesses and cannot have employees working on-premise. Notwithstanding this restriction, essential services, such as groundskeeping to avoid hazardous conditions and security, provided by employees, contractors, or vendors are permitted.
Private operators of golf courses may permit individuals access to the property so long as there are no gatherings of any kind, appropriate social distancing of six feet between individuals is strictly followed, and the business operator and golfers abide by the specific guidelines for golf courses outlined below.
Municipalities may decide to open municipal courses under these guidelines, if they so choose.
The specific guidelines for golf courses are:
Security personnel can be delineated by each club (ex. a pro and the head starter) and will be present to enforce social distancing. There can be no other employees working at the recreational component of the golf operation.
All staff must wear face coverings while on the property
Club facilities including but not limited to the club house, pro shop, restaurant, bag room and locker room must remain closed
No caddies allowed
No golf carts allowed
Push carts may be used. Players must either carry their own bag or use a push cart
All golfers must maintain proper social distancing of at least 6 feet at all times
Groups of players are restricted to no more than 4 players at one time.
Members-only clubs can allow guests as determined by the security personnel on the golf course
Private clubs that allow non-members to make reservations can do so at their discretion
Maintenance personnel are permitted to work on the golf course
Tee Time Policy must be 15 minutes between groups
Golfers must stay in their car until 15 minutes before their tee time and must return to their car immediately following play
Online and remote payment options must be utilized
All golfers must use their own golf clubs. Sharing golf clubs or rental golf clubs is not allowed.
Flag sticks must remain in the hole. Hole liners must be raised so picking a ball out of the hole doesn't occur
Bunker rakes must be removed, and ball washers must be removed or covered.
Practice putting green, driving range, and chipping areas must be closed.
Facilities must have readily accessible hand sanitizer