Before rangefinders and GPS, golfers relied on markers around the course to judge distances. Many still do. Yardage markers, sprinkler heads, plates and tee signs give useful information, as long as you know what they measure. Here's how to read them.
Types of markers
| Marker | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Posts or stakes | Fixed distances such as 100, 150 and 200 |
| Discs or plates in the fairway | Distances, often colour-coded |
| Sprinkler heads | Distances to the green |
| Tee signs | Length, par, stroke index and hole map |
Common colour conventions on some courses include red for 100, white for 150 and blue for 200, but they vary. Check the scorecard or ask the pro shop.
Front or centre?
Some courses measure to the front of the green, others to the centre. That can make a difference of 10 yards or more. Check the scorecard. Read pin positions and flags.
Yards or metres?
Some courses measure in metres. A metre is about 1.09 yards.
Using markers
- Find the nearest marker.
- Pace forward or back to your ball.
- Adjust for the pin position, elevation and wind. Read how to play golf in the wind.
- Choose your club. Use our club distance chart.
Other course signs
- Directional signs between holes.
- Cart signs. Read golf cart etiquette.
- Hazard and safety signs. Read golf course safety.
- Ground under repair notices. Read golf local rules explained.
Read yardage books explained and rangefinder vs GPS.
Common markers at a glance
| Marker | Usual meaning |
|---|---|
| Red or blue post, plate or stripe | Distance to the green, often 100, 150 or 200 yards or metres |
| Sprinkler head with a number | Distance to the front or centre of the green |
| Coloured tee markers | Teeing areas of different lengths. Read which tees should I play? |
| White stakes | Out of bounds |
| Red stakes | Red penalty area |
| Yellow stakes | Yellow penalty area |
| Blue stakes or white lines | Ground under repair |
| Green-topped stakes | No-play zones |
Read penalty areas and out of bounds.
Using markers alongside other tools
Markers are useful even if you use a rangefinder or GPS:
- As a quick check that your device is correct.
- When your battery dies.
- In casual rounds to speed up play.
Read rangefinder vs GPS golf.
Worked example
Your ball is 15 yards behind the 150-yard marker. The pin is at the back of the green, and the marker is measured to the centre. If the green is 30 yards deep, the pin is about 10 yards beyond the centre.
- Distance to centre: 150 + 15 = 165 yards.
- Distance to pin: 165 + 10 = 175 yards.
Adjust for wind and elevation, then choose your club. Read how to choose the right club for every shot.
Course signs to know
- Cart rules signs: "Paths only" or the 90-degree rule. Read golf cart etiquette.
- Safety bells and signs on blind holes. Read how to play blind shots.
- "Next tee" signs pointing the way.
- Warning signs for footpaths, roads and maintenance.
- Local rules boards near the first tee or starter's hut. Read golf local rules explained.
Learn the system at each course
Different courses use different markers. Check the scorecard or ask the starter whether distances are to the front or centre, and whether they're in yards or metres.
Frequently asked questions
What does a 150 marker mean?
It shows 150 yards (or metres) to the green, usually the front or centre.
Do sprinkler heads show distances?
On many courses, yes.
Are markers measured to the front or centre of the green?
It varies; check the scorecard.
What do coloured yardage plates mean?
Usually different distances; colour systems vary by course.
Are yardage markers to the front or centre of the green?
Most are to the centre, but some courses measure to the front. Check the scorecard.
What do coloured dots on sprinkler heads mean?
Often the distance or the position of the hole that day; check local signs.
The bottom line
Yardage markers are simple, reliable tools. Learn your course's system, check front or centre, pace to your ball and adjust for conditions. For more, read how to read a golf hole.