# Golf clubs too early on preferred lies?

> Golf clubs introduce winter rules too soon, causing confusion.
- Title: Golf clubs too early on preferred lies? · Nationalclubgolfer
- Summary: Golf clubs introduce winter rules too soon, causing confusion. Golf clubs should wait until conditions are truly bad before implementing winter rules like…
- Keywords: golf, preferred lies, winter rules, club, golf course, sports, clubs, too, early, preferred, lies, Nationalclubgolfer
- Source: Nationalclubgolfer — https://nationalclubgolfer.com/club/features/are-golf-clubs-bringing-in-preferred-lies-too-early
- Author: Steve Carroll
- Published: 2026-10-19T02:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: golf, preferred lies, winter rules, club, golf course, sports
## Winter rules start October 1
Winter rules come back into force on October 1 for golf courses.
## When should preferred lies start?
Preferred lies should only be introduced when conditions are abnormally wet or drainage work is underway.
## Why clubs hesitate
Clubs worry about confusing golfers if they switch rules after weather improves.
## Key takeaway

Golf clubs should wait until conditions are truly bad before implementing winter rules like preferred lies.