In this first printing of the new Rules, we are including this summary of the more important rules changes that are being implemented as of January 1, 2006. This summary is for information purposes only, it is not part of the official rules.
The glossary was moved to the front of the book. There is a lot of important stuff in there that helps to fully explain certain rules situations. Read the glossary.
Clarified that a line has no thickness under Line of Play. This means that a player's support point must be directly behind the center of the marker, regardless of the size of the marker.
Made players responsible for the actions of their caddies.
Replaced many shoulds with the word shall. "
Stated that players should attend the player's meeting and that they are responsible for knowing what is mentioned at it.
Clarified and expanded the explanation of Provisional Throws. You can use them to play holes in alternate ways (carding both scores) to settle rules disputes and you can use them when you think it might save time. (Lost disc, OB disc, etc.) Again, provisional throws can really come in handy.
Clarified that casual obstacles can not be moved if part of them are between you and the hole. Play it where you threw it. The player now has the option of moving back five meters on the line of play.
Changed Unsafe Lie to Unplayable Lie. A player may now relocate within 5 meters OR throw from the previous lie with a one throw penalty.
The default is now NO two meter rule. Of course the TD has the option to make two meters a penalty if they wish. TD's can also have it apply only to certain, designated obstacles.
Out-of-bounds. The line is now considered OUT, not in. This will make OB much easier to rule upon, in many situations. (Fences or walls as OB.)
Did the obligatory re-write of the mandatory rule. Just an attempt at more clarity. The drop zone is still alive and well.
Lost disc. The player plays from their previous lie. (Throw and distance.) This gets rid of that contentious where it was last seen judgment call.
Referenced that all special conditions should be covered in the player's meeting.
When recording scores, clarified that numbers must be used and that it is okay for anyone in the group to pick up the cards.
Divisional classifications were removed from the rule book. They change frequently. Each season will have the appropriate divisions listed on the PDGA site, and in all publications and event guides.