# Preferred lies rule returns with winter twist

> Golf clubs in England can use preferred lies from October 1 until April 30 next year, but must only apply them when weather makes scoring impossible.
- Title: Preferred lies rule returns with winter twist | Shortify
- Summary: Golf clubs in England can use preferred lies from October 1 until April 30 next year, but must only apply them when weather makes scoring impossible. England…
- Keywords: preferred lies, england golf, world handicap system, local rules, golf courses, weather conditions, sports, Preferred, lies, rule, returns, winter
- Source: Nationalclubgolfer — https://nationalclubgolfer.com/club/features/preferred-lies-are-back-but-did-you-know-there-is-a-twist
- Author: Steve Carroll
- Published: 2026-09-30T14:34:36+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: preferred lies, england golf, world handicap system, local rules, golf courses, weather conditions, sports
## When preferred lies start
October 1 marks the first day of winter in the golf calendar for clubs in england.
## Preferred lies definition
Preferred lies allows golfers to place their ball in a specified relief area without needing county permission.
## Local rules for winter
Clubs can use three local rules from now until april 30 next year to handle weather and keep scores in the world handicap system.
## When rules must be removed
Model local rules must be removed as soon as practically possible after weather conditions improve.
## Weather condition rule
Clubs must use preferred lies only when weather makes acceptable scoring impossible without them.
## What happens next
Clubs must switch off courses and tee sets in their whs software when weather prevents acceptable scoring.
## Key takeaway

England Golf requires golf clubs to use preferred lies only when extreme weather prevents acceptable scoring, not year-round.