Augusta National, home of The Masters, is one of the world’s most exclusive clubs and is proud of its traditions, many of which go back decades.
The club is unique in some of its ways and many of the patrons on-site each and every year have to abide by some strict rules, including not having cell phones on them around the property. There are a number of other things you can’t do at Augusta National, as we explain here…
1. No phones
There’s a complete ban on phones and other electronic devices on the property at Augusta National Golf Club. If you’re spotted with a phone – even if it’s in your pocket – you will be asked to leave the premises. It’s why when watching The Masters you won’t see patrons filming and taking pictures of their favorite golfers. And they have people in among the crowds watching for any wrongdoing. Cameras are allowed but only during practice days.
2. No running
You’re not allowed to run at Augusta National, which leads to quite an amusing scene when the gates open each day as ‘patrons’ power-walk to their viewing positions.
3. Chair policy
You’re not allowed to take anyone’s fold-up chair, even if it’s been unattended for hours, so the patrons rush to their favourite spot at the start of each day to lay down their marker. Augusta has many seating areas around the course where patrons can put down their Masters-branded chairs and leave them to come back to.
4. No sitting on the grass
You’re not permitted to sit down on the grass when watching The Masters. If you want to sit down, use a chair.
5. No sunbathing
And similarly with sitting on the grass, you obviously can’t lay down on the hallowed turf and take in some rays. That is strictly prohibited.
6. Branded goods
Don’t think about bringing overtly branded goods to Augusta National as you won’t be allowed to take them on the property. At The Masters, you won’t find many branded logos other than The Masters and Augusta National logos themselves.
7. No tipping
No tipping is allowed at Augusta National – a rule that dates back to the days of co-founder Clifford Roberts, who didn’t want members to be treated differently based on how much they tipped.