#The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf is happy to confirm that golf courses are able to remain open despite the new Tier 4 restrictions becoming effective in parts of England from early yesterday (Sunday 20thDecember).

In Tier 4 areas, golf courses can remain open for individuals playing with members of their own household or support bubble, or with one person from another household. 

As usual, social distancing is to be observed and all necessary steps are to be taken to ensure a COVID-19 secure environment.

Under Tier 4 restrictions, non-essential retail - including Pro Shops and golf retailers - must close. Click and Collect will, however, be permitted.

Outdoor coaching will be allowed on an individual basis or for multiple members of the same household or support bubble. Indoor coaching will be not be permitted.

There are exceptions for indoor disability sport, sport for educational purposes, and supervised sport and physical activity for under-18s, which can take place with larger groups mixing.
Custom fitting can take place outside on a one-to-one basis but is not permitted indoors.

Some golf ranges can be classified as indoor settings, but it would be for each facility to read and interpret the guidelines against their own venue – it is suggested that if confirmation is required they contact their local authority who will be best placed to advise.

Unless it’s essential for work or other reasons, Tier 4 areas must not be left by occupants or entered by anybody from a Tier 1, 2 or 3 area. Full details of Tier 4 guidance can be found on the Government’s website: 
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-4-stay-at-home#sports-and-physical-activity

For more information, the England Golf COVID-19 Resource Hub and The PGA COVID-19 Resource Hub will be updated as soon as any new information becomes available.