Rules Update: Flex Starts Exempt From Bathroom Requirements in 2025

After discussion with TDs and relevant staff, the requirement to have a bathroom available will not apply to flex starts in 2025. In the United States and Canada, bathrooms will be required for all other C-Tiers and for all B-Tiers and above. Outside the United States and Canada, bathrooms will be required at all B-Tiers and above, and are highly recommended at C-Tiers other than flex starts (see Competition Manual 6.03.J). The relevant language in Competition Manual 5.03.G has been amended to read:

5.03.G. At PDGA-sanctioned events, bathrooms are required.

1. The event must have either a permanent bathroom or temporary bathroom on site at each venue that is:

a. accessible to all players;

b. stocked and serviced and in working order;

c. available no less than 60 minutes prior to the first tee time of the day; and

d. available for the duration of the event schedule and all event-related activities at the course(s) being played; and

e. a reasonable walking distance from the course(s) being played.

2. Tournament Directors who must rent facilities to comply with this are allowed to use the bathroom pass-through fee (see 5.04.A.3.d) to offset costs.

3. This provision does not apply to Leagues.

4. This provision does not apply to flex starts (see 1.05.B.3). The TD must notify players in pre-registration materials if no bathroom will be available at a flex start.

5. Please consult the PDGA Water and Bathroom Recommendations for best practices regarding bathrooms.

For questions about this or other rules and regulations, please contact PDGA Event Support.