Governor Charlie Baker announced on Thursday that Massachusetts golf courses would be allowed to open for operation while plans are being made to reopen non-essential businesses during the COVID-19 crisis.  There are still many guidelines that courses must adhere to...

·         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.

·         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