Hill County health officer opens golf course with restrictions

Hill County Health Officer Jessica Sheehy issued an order Monday afternoon opening Hill County golf courses with some restrictions.

Gov. Steve Bullock, when he issued his stay-at-home directive March 26 to reduce the spread of COVID-19, allowed people to go outdoors such as to city, county and state parks as long as they followed social distancing requirements.

Sheehy's order Monday said that golf courses may operate, with the following restrictions, effective immediately.

The order requires that:

• No more than four golfers per group are permitted;

• Regular tee times are to be spaced out at 15 minute increments, ensuring golfers do not congregate;

• No golf cart or golf club rentals are allowed. The use of private golf carts is permitted so long as there is only one person per cart;

• Apparatus shall be put in place to ensure a golf ball does not fall into a cup;

• Clubhouses shall ensure adequate social distancing pursuant to Gov. Steve Bullock's March 26 directive;

• No food or beverages shall be consumed in the clubhouse.

Sheehy's order said it shall remain in place until another health officer order changes the requirements.