Disc Golf Basics: Simple Rules, Scoring, Etiquette, and Fun Twists

The rules of disc golf are simple and easy to learn! Here is how to properly play, keep score, and have fun!

Main Premise

The main premise of disc golf is very similar to traditional ball golf, but with disc golf discs instead of balls and clubs. The goal is to complete each hole (basket) by getting a disc in the basket in as few throws as possible, starting from the tee pad.

After throwing once, you must throw your next shot from wherever the previous one landed. Most courses have 9 or 18 holes. Keep track of how many throws it takes on each hole and add them up as you go.

Scoring

Most courses classify each hole with a set par number. This number represents how many throws it takes to add “zero” to your score.

For example, if a hole is a Par 3:

• Finishing the hole in 3 throws keeps your score the same (E).
• Finishing in 2 throws subtracts 1 from your score (-1).
• Finishing in 4 throws adds 1 to your score (+1).

Remember, the lower your score, the better.

Marking Your Lie (Play It Where It Lies!)

Here’s how to mark your lie after you’ve thrown off the tee:

1. Option 1: Place your foot directly behind your disc.
2. Option 2: Flip the disc toward the basket and place your foot where the disc was before.
3. Option 3: Use a mini disc or marker. Place it directly in front of your disc, remove the disc, and place your foot behind the marker.

Fairway Throws & Circle 1

It is okay to step in front of your lie during your follow-through after the disc has left your hand, as long as you are outside of 10 meters from the basket (Circle 1).

When you are within Circle 1, you must maintain balance behind your lie. You can only step forward after the disc has come to rest.

Out of Bounds (OB)

A disc must be fully out of bounds to be considered OB. If even a small sliver of the disc is still in bounds, then the disc is in bounds.

If a throw lands out of bounds, it must be played from a point up to 1 meter in bounds from where the disc crossed the out-of-bounds line.

Permanent water hazards (lakes, creeks, etc.), public roads, and most park boundaries are usually considered out of bounds. Be sure to check the signage at each hole, if it exists.

Common Course Courtesy

A few simple etiquette rules make the round smoother and more enjoyable for everyone:

• The player furthest from the basket throws first
• Remain quiet while others are throwing
• Stand behind the player who is throwing
• Let faster groups play through when possible
• Don’t throw when others are in range of your throw
• Don’t change or alter the course

Keep It Fun!

Disc golf is only as serious as you make it. Feel free to score how you want and create your own fun twists on the game, as long as it doesn’t affect other disc golfers on the course.

Here are a couple fun twists you can try next time you’re out playing:

Doubles (Best Shot, Alternate Shot, Worst Shot)

You and a partner can try to conquer a course together!

• Best Shot: Play from the best lie
• Alternate Shot: Alternate who throws each shot
• Worst Shot: Play from the worst lie

Safari Holes

Create your own custom holes by mixing up tee pads and baskets.

For example:

• Throw from Hole 2’s tee pad to Hole 5’s basket
• Start or finish from unconventional locations (as long as it’s safe and allowed)

Safari holes are a great way to make familiar courses feel brand new.