OAKBOURNE COUNTRY CLUB, INCORPORATED’S RULES & REGULATIONS

 
These House Rules have been adopted by the Board of Directors of Oakbourne Country Club in attempt to assure the maximum enjoyment of the Club facilities by its members at all times.
 
In drafting these rules, the Board of Directors has kept in mind two principles:
 

1. People are governed best who are governed least;

 

2. Members may do whatever they please, so long as it does not infringe upon the rights of other members to do the same.

 

GENERAL MANAGER

 
The operation of Oakbourne Country Club and all of its facilities shall be under the direction of a General Manager with full authority under the House Committee to enforce House Rules.
 

CHARGES AND CREDITS

 
All members will sign checks and indicate their assigned membership number for food and beverages and will be billed through the 25th of each month directly by the Club.  These bills are due per Section 2 and 3 of By-Law I.
 
All out of town reciprocal guests will likewise sign checks and shall be charged at the end of each month by forwarding the bill to the address provided to the Pro Shop. Guest information must include name legibly printed or written, name of reciprocal club, member’s club number and address of reciprocal club and also guests’ residence address.
 
No personal long-distance calls shall be charged to the Club phone.
 
No COD packages or COD material will be received, or bill paid for any member or guest, unless previous arrangements have been made with the General Manager.
 

GUESTS

 
The guest privilege is one which should be exercised with care and discretion, and with utmost regard for the rights of other members, as it is a privilege easily abused.
 

1. Members having out-of-town or out-of-state guests may request the General Manager to issue a Guest Card which will give such guests the privileges of the Club without the necessity of being accompanied by a member. The guest card will be effective for ten (10) days only, and a new invitation will not be issued to the same visitor, unless 31 days have elapsed from the date of expiration of his previous card. If a member uses a guest card and the guest comes out without said member a $125.00 charge will apply. (A family member is a daughter, daughter-in-law, son, son-in-law, father, father-in-law, mother, mother-in-law, brother-in-law, brother, sister, sister in law, grandparent or grandchild only). Any other family member will be charged normal guest fee.

 

2. Only non-residents residing outside of the Parish of Lafayette and adjoining parishes, may be eligible for such a card, and not more than two (2) persons may enjoy the privilege at the same time as guests of any one member.
3. Local guests may only enjoy the privileges of the Club when accompanied by a member.
4. Members are to be held strictly accountable for the conduct and financial obligations of their guest or guests.
5. Members bringing small children to the Clubrooms must keep such children in their company at all times.
6. Certain restrictions shall be made during the swimming season, whereby parents will not be permitted to leave children under 13 years of age unattended, and in complete care of our lifeguards. This is for your protection as well as ours.

 
Under no circumstances shall we charter our Teenage Facilities as this should be made available to the children of our members, and their guests at all times. Our "snack Bar" will also be open at certain hours during the afternoon and evening.  There will be no cash handled at the "Snack Bar."
 

CONDUCT

 
Members and their families and guests are expected to act as ladies and gentlemen at all times. No loud, obnoxious, boisterous, inappropriate, unlawful, or unseemly conduct will be tolerated anywhere on Oakbourne property. Such conduct shall include, but not be limited to, public profane language, intoxication, physical altercations, harassment of any kind towards employees or members, damage or theft of property belonging to Oakbourne or others, or any conduct that may bring discredit, embarrassment or liability to Oakbourne or its membership.
 
Oakbourne members judged guilty of such conduct by the Board of Directors or a committee set forth in By-Law VI of Oakbourne’s By-Laws may be subject to reprimand, fine, suspension, or expulsion by the Board of Directors or a committee.
 

GENERAL

(amended 3-19-13)
 
Card playing will be permitted only in the Clubrooms designated by the House Committee. Only active members of Oakbourne Country Club are allowed to play cards at Oakbourne Country Club. However, a guest may play cards at Oakbourne Country Club if their host member is present and the guest meets one of the following criteria: (a) the guest does not reside in Lafayette Parish or any parish adjoining Lafayette Parish, (b) the guest is participating in a tournament at Oakbourne Country Club and the card playing takes place during the days of the tournament, including practice rounds, or (c) a greens fee was paid for the guest to play golf.
 
No package liquor purchased by any member or guest shall be consumed on the premises.
 
Bulk wine, liquor and/or uncooked food cannot be purchased in order to satisfy food minimum. The Club is not responsible for loss of or damage to, property of members or guests.
The Grill (19th Hole) shall be reserved for members and their guests only.
 
The Clubhouse may be used for privately sponsored political events, and all charges for use of the facility, food and beverages will be at published rates.  Distribution of political or sectarian literature at the Club shall be limited to those individuals attending such events. Oakbourne Country Club, its management and Board of Directors expressly do not endorse any candidate, political organization or any of their policies or agendas, and the holding of such events should not be construed as such.

 
No dogs or other pets are to be permitted on Club property.
 
The solicitation of funds in any manner or for any purpose is prohibited within the club properties without first having express approval of the Board of Directors.
 
The Club Manager is charged with enforcement of these rules and infractions shall be reported immediately to the Board of Directors.
 
All employees are charged with the responsibility of carrying out the rules set out by the Board of Directors and General Manager.
 

PRIVATE ENTERTAINMENT

 
Members desiring to use the Clubhouse for private entertaining, which will occupy the entire ballroom dining area, will be charged a minimum of $1,000.00 for food and drinks.
 
Club employees have complete authority to refuse to serve alcoholic beverages to anyone where circumstances warrant such action.
 

CLUB HOUSE HOURS

 
Except at the discretion of the House Committee, the Clubhouse will be open from Tuesday through Sunday. Locker Rooms - Tuesday through Sunday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Grills - Tuesday through Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. (8:00 p.m. during daylight savings time) Saturday and Sunday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. (8:00 p.m. during daylight savings time)
 
Dining Room –  Holiday buffets
 
Swimming Pool – Starting the Saturday before Memorial Day through the first weekend in August: 11:00AM – 8:00PM Tuesday through Saturday, 1:00PM-8:00PM Sunday, closed Monday. Then, weekends in August through Labor Day: 11:00AM – 8:00PM on Saturday and 1:00PM – 7:00PM on Sunday, closed Monday through Friday.
 
Pool Snack Bar - 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Tuesday through Sunday.
Tenth Tee - 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (and as needed to support extra club activities.)
 

GOLF RULES ETIQUETTE OF GOLF ETIQUETTE

 
The etiquette of golf as prescribed by the United States Golf Association shall apply. All players are expected to be familiar with golf etiquette and act accordingly. The primary annoyances on present day golf courses arise from slow play, the misuse of golf carts, the replacing of divots and repairing of ball marks on greens.
 
When a clear hole is open in front of a golfing group, (foursomes have priority), a faster group following them must be invited to play through. A single player, a twosome or threesome, shall have the same standing as a foursome and are not permitted to go through because of their faster play. Failure to do so should be reported in writing to the Pro Shop Committee and signed by two players.
 
 
A walking group shall always have the right to play at a reasonable speed without being pushed by golf cart riders. Golf cart riders have no right to play through a walking group unless a clear hole is open in front of the walking group.
 
Golfers shall dispose of all trash, paper cups, etc., in the receptacles provided on the course.
 

HINTS FOR FASTER PLAY

 
Always be in position for your shot.
 
If possible, take the club you will use on the next shot out immediately.
 
After putting, hole out immediately instead of marking ball if your putt is not conceded.
 
Don't waste time between the green and the next tee by cleaning balls, keeping score and otherwise holding up play. Failure to cooperate with the Course Marshall will be reported to the Pro Shop Committee.

GUESTS

(Amended 01/19/10, 2/1/19)
 
The use of the course and practice areas is restricted to members and their guest. The term member means the holder of any class of membership and all members of their household family. (excluding social membership)
 
Any member must register their son or daughter as a guest, after they have reached their 22th birthday (25 if member joined prior to January 19, 2010) or once they are married, employed or are no longer a dependent. These members of the family should be treated as a guest and allowed all privileges of a guest member.
 
Anytime a guest plays golf and is not playing with a member a $125.00 green fee will be charged. NO EXCEPTIONS
 
*For green fee purposes, a family member would be daughter, daughter in law, son, son in law, brother, brother in law, sister, sister in law, mother, mother in law, father, father in law, grandparent, or grandchild only. Any other family member would be charged normal guest fee.
 
Family members not qualifying under member’s account, *fitting the description above, and playing with related member will be charged a $40.00 green fee.  If not accompanied by member $125.00 green fee applies.
 
*Family members not qualify under member's account and living outside the adjoining parishes may play 4 times per calendar month at prevailing green fee, 5 or more times per month will be subject to prevailing “guest without a member” green fee.
 
All players from within Lafayette and adjoining parishes must play with a member.
 
Guests who are non-residents of Lafayette or adjoining parishes may play upon the course only if they are a member of a reciprocal club. Each member of a visiting group must be a member of a reciprocal club. The Club will, upon request of a member to the General Manager, issue a Guest Card to guests. Guest cards shall not be requested or issued for the purpose of sponsoring group or tournament play on the golf course.
 
 
All guests must be registered prior to beginning play. A Guest Fee will be charged for guest accompanied by a member.
 
All Guest Fees must be charged. The sponsoring member shall be responsible for all fees and charges as well as any damage caused by the guest.
 
Guest's use of the golf course, driving range, putting green, and chipping green will be limited to 6 times per calendar year. This would also apply to any *family members not qualifying under the member's account and living in town or adjoining parishes (excluding grandchildren under the age of 16). (see definition of *family members, in relation to green fees, on page 4). There will be no limit for grandchildren under the age of 16 playing with grandparent. There will be no limit for guests age 75 and over.
 
Each member will be limited to one guest on Saturday mornings between 9:00 AM and 1:30 PM Daylight Savings Time (12:30 PM Standard Time). On Tuesday through Friday each member will be limited to one guest from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM Daylight Savings Time (12:30 PM Standard Time). (Only 4 guests per group). (This rule has been temporarily suspended)
 
Twenty players or less may be approved by the golf professional.  More than twenty requires Board approval.
 
Half guest fees will be charged after 2:00 PM Central Standard Time and 3:00 PM Daylight Savings Time on weekends, weekdays and holidays.
 
Golf Tournaments, in which non-members participate, are not permitted without the approval of the Board of Directors.
 

CHILDREN AND JUNIOR PLAY

(amended 4/2009)
Juniors (dependents) are defined as sons and daughters of members, who have not reached the age of eighteen (18). Juniors will be permitted to play on the course at the times indicated.
 
To play by themselves they must be twelve years of age or older. If under twelve, at the discretion of the pro, a Junior Golfer must pass a test of etiquette rules and playing ability to play without an adult. Children of any age may play when accompanied by their parents, subject to the rules governing junior play.
 
Matches containing Juniors of any age must at all times permit adult players to go through.
 
Parents are charged with the responsibility of acquainting their children with the rules and etiquette.
 
To avoid accidents, children must keep off the golf course unless they are playing golf in accordance with the rules.
 
Children of stockholders, under age 18, will be able to bring one non-member guest of same age category and pay no guest fee Tuesday through Thursday. Any junior guests playing on Friday, Saturday or Sunday will be charged $20 guest fee for 1st guest. If junior brings more than one guest, regular guest fees will apply. The $20 guest fee will not qualify for a reduced twilight rate. Junior guests may not play more than four times per month and 24 times per calendar year. No junior may play during prime time (before 2:00 p.m.) unless prior approval is received from a golf professional.  Children must sign in at the pro shop before going out on the course.
 
 

USGA RULES

 
All play shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the United States Golf Association except as modified by posted Local Rules.
 

STARTING TIMES

 
Starting times can be requested 2 days in advance, starting at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday by phone, on the Golf Shop number (235-2324) or by coming to the Golf Shop in person. The first time will be given to the first person in line and second time to the first phone call. All times will be given alternately between those at the shop and those calling.
 
To receive a time, the member must have at least two players.
 
An individual who calls or appears in person can only get one time for each day requested. Tee times for Tuesday and Wednesday can be taken on Sundays.
Tee times will be blocked 8:45 AM and later on Tuesday (based on ladies’ tournament participation).
 
Only the head golf professional has the authority to take tee times more than two days in advance and only under extenuating circumstances.  (RESTRICTIONS APPLY)
 
Procedure for signing up for tee times prior to the shop's opening:
 
An official sign-up sheet will be posted by the golf shop personnel one hour before the shop opens. You may only place one name (and a requested time, if you have a preference) on the sheet. You must be present when the golf shop opens to confirm your requested tee time.
 
If a sign-up request is posted on the evening before the tee times are to be assigned, it will not be acknowledged and will be removed.
 

FIVESOMES

 
Fivesomes are permitted to play anytime except Saturday before 10:00 a.m. and Tuesday before ladies' day play. They must maintain the pace of a foursome.
 

SATURDAYS

 
In order to accommodate the maximum number of players on Saturdays, members are required to play foursomes and threesomes, until 11:00 AM and continue to play with a maximum of four people and complete their rounds. Singles and twosomes may play after 2:00 PM. However, at the Pro's discretion, twosomes may be allowed to play before 2:00 PM under special circumstances.
 

GOLF CARTS

 
***Golf carts, once reaching the markers going toward the green must remain on the cart path and may leave the cart path once they pass the markers leaving the next tee.  They shall always be operated in conformity with good
judgment for the protection of the course and shall follow all instructional or directional signs and cart trails. 1/18/05

***Bold underlined rule above is temporarily suspended. Should it be reinstated you will be notified immediately.

 
All golf carts must be in before 8:00 PM or at dusk.
 
All golf carts shall remain on the paths when in the opinion of the Greens Superintendent or the Golf Professional, the condition of the course is such that is necessary.
 
No more than two golf bags shall be carried on golf carts at one time.
 
Any 15-year-old with a driver’s permit and accompanied by his/her parent is eligible to drive a cart.
 
Anyone 16 years or older with valid driver’s license is eligible to drive a cart. (juniors must have a driver’s license) Anyone playing golf, regardless of age, and riding in a cart will be charged the prevailing cart fee.
No more than two people allowed in golf carts at one time, regardless of age.
 
The Golf Professional and his staff must strictly enforce the above cart rules because of the danger stemming from cart operation by youngsters and the potential liability to Oakbourne.
 
This policy will be strictly enforced.
 

 
 

MEN

PROPER GOLF ATTIRE
(Amended 12-1-12)

 
Players are not permitted to play golf or use the practice tee, putting or chipping green without a collared shirt. Swimming attire, cut-offs, gym or athletic shorts, any type of jeans, tank tops, tee shirts and sweatshirts are not allowed. Tee shirt type dress shirts are not allowed. Golf mock turtle necks are allowed. Shorts must be “mid-thigh or longer”. Players and their guests will be properly attired at all times on the golf course. Only non-metallic or soft spikes are allowed. All dress attire is subject to the discretion of the Golf Pro Shop.
 
Oakbourne Country Club requires, tucking in all shirts when playing golf, and/or using the practice tee, putting or chipping green.
 

LADIES

 
Players are not permitted to play golf or use the practice tee, putting or chipping green without a Shirt with either sleeves or collar. If shirt has collar, sleeves are not necessary. If shirt has sleeves, collar is not necessary. Golf Mock Turtle Necks are allowed. Swimming attire, Cut Offs, gym or athletic shorts, Tank Tops, T-shirts, Sweatshirts and any type of Jeans are not allowed. All Shorts must be Mid-Thigh or Longer. Players and their guest will be properly attired at all times on the golf course.

 
 

CADDIES

 
Members are permitted to engage a caddie and be responsible for his or her actions while on Oakbourne property.
 

PRACTICING

 
Players must not practice: On any part of a regular tee
 
Pitch shots to any green or practice putting on any playing green Shots into the fairways
Shots into #1 fairways
 
Short pitch shots and putting only allowed on practice green on left of #14 Tee box.
 

DRIVING RANGE

 
Players are required to hit only from between the roped areas and only with the clubs indicated by the signs. Hitting balls over the driving range fence will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
All classes of membership (excluding social) are charged for mandatory range plan. No credit will be issued to stock, junior, and non-resident members. Honorary widows and seniors may request credit provided they and their guests use the club for dining only. Should anyone play golf on said membership (senior/widow), member will be billed range plan for year. Charter members may request credit provided they and their guests do not use the range.  Should a charter member or their guests use the range the range plan will be billed for the year.  (No exceptions)
 

 
 

Weather Warning System

MISCELLANEOUS
Amended 8-16-11

 
The safety of our Members, Guests and Staff is primary concern. The Club is equipped with a Thor Guard Lightning Detection System (installed September 2011) that automatically detects lightning as a hazard to life and property.
 

The Warning Signal

 
The Thor Guard system is equipped with a series of pole mounted sirens and flashing strobes that are visible throughout the property. When the system activates you will hear a prolonged horn blast accompanied by flashing strobes.
 

The Lightning Policy

 
When the Thor Guard system is activated, it is the MANDATORY policy of the Club that all Members, Guests and Staff immediately seek indoor and enclosed shelter off the golf course, driving range, putting and chipping greens, tennis courts or pool deck. Players should also stop play and seek shelter anytime they believe lightning threatens them, even if a horn has NOT been sounded.

 
Golf carts, open rain shelters, awnings, patios and decks are NOT lightning safe environments.
 

Resumption of Play

 
Resumption of play is signaled by THREE five second blasts of the horns. The resumption signal is a new feature of the upgraded system.
 

The above policy is mandatory.

 
No ball hawking allowed. You may only retrieve your own ball. The Club is closed on Mondays.  No putting or fishing is allowed.
FISHING POLICY
 

• LONG DAYS                   after 7:00 PM
• SHORT DAYS                 after 4:30 PM

 

• PRO SHOP HAS THE AUTHORITY TO CHANGE FISHING TIMES BASED ON AMOUNT OF PLAY
• MUST CHECK-IN WITH THE PRO SHOP
• MUST BE 12 YEARS OF AGE
• 12 AND UNDER CAN FISH WITH A GROWN-UP
• FISHING AREAS:

 

• Right of #11 - NOT the Green Side
• Back of #5 by #6 Tee Box
• The right of #14 Tee Box

**** NO EXCEPTIONS
Not adhering to the rules will result in loss of fishing privileges.
. Chipping is allowed provided there is no sign out stating otherwise. Only non-metallic/soft spikes allowed.

VIOLATIONS

Amended 10/27/04
 
Breach of Rules of Etiquette, Rules of the golf course, Ground Rules or Golf Cart Rules, shall be reported to Oakbourne Management in writing, signed by any member or employee of Oakbourne. Such breaches shall be forwarded to appropriate committee(s) and subject to the procedures and penalties set forth in Oakbourne’s Articles of Incorporation and By-laws, including, without limitation, Section 8 of By-law III.
 
When circumstances make it impractical or unreasonable to enforce the rules set forth in this section, the Golf Professional is authorized to use his/her discretion to alter the rules to fit the circumstances.
 
When a violation form is submitted to Oakbourne Management, a letter stating alleged violation will be sent to member immediately. Said letter will then be forwarded to appropriate committee(s) for review and committee(s) will decide whether violation letter will be placed in the member's individual file.

 
 

SWIMMING POOL RULES

(Amended 6-21-2017, 04-2019, 01-2021)
 
Swimming Pool – Starting the Saturday before Memorial Day through the first weekend in August: 11:00AM – 8:00PM Tuesday through Saturday, 1:00PM-8:00PM Sunday, closed Monday. Then, weekends in August through Labor Day: 11:00AM – 8:00PM on Saturday and 1:00PM – 7:00PM on Sunday, closed Monday through Friday.
 
All members and guests must register themselves in a log book with the lifeguard before entering the pool. This is a MUST. The guest fee must be signed for by the host-member or his child. Guest fees for swimming shall be $5.00 per visit per person.
This fee may be changed at the discretion of the House Committee.
 
Grandchildren under the age of 12 and accompanied by member (grandparent) will not be charged a guest fee. (no drop-offs) (revised 8-00)
 
Children under 13 years of age are not permitted to use pool unless accompanied by a responsible adult (An adult is considered 16 years of age).
 
Non-swimmers are not permitted in the deep end and beyond the rope barrier, and swimmers are not allowed to hang off the rope.
 
Eating within 3 feet of the pool is prohibited. Bottles or glasses prohibited around pool area, members are reminded to clean their own tables, and put trash in receptacles.
 
Swimmers with infectious skin diseases are not permitted to use pool. Running or rough play on pool deck is forbidden.
No pets allowed in pool area.
 
Only one person at a time will be allowed on diving boards, and divers are allowed only one spring. No golf or hard balls of any kind are allowed around or in pool.
NO CUT-OFFS!   SWIM SUITS ONLY!
 
Swimmers MUST SHOWER before entering swimming pool. Persons in bathing suits are not permitted in the Club House.
Children 6 years of age and older are not permitted in the baby pool. Children entering the baby pool must be accompanied by a responsible adult (An adult is considered 16 years of age or older).
 
Persons in bathing suits are not allowed outside the swimming area.
 
While Lifeguards are on duty, unnecessary conversation with them is prohibited. The area in and around the lifeguard stands will not be obstructed at any time.
The pool is closed when the sign is posted.  Use of the pool is prohibited when no lifeguard on duty.
 
 
The pool will be closed any time weather prevents safe swimming conditions. Lifeguards will re-open the pool when conditions warrant.
 
While the club will provide lifeguards and do everything possible to promote safety of the swimmers, it assumes no responsibility of injury or death in connection with the swimming pool.
 
The authority of the lifeguard and the pool director on any matters pertaining to the safety of swimmers or the enforcement of the rules set forth in this section is final unless modified or reversed by the house committee or Board of Directors.
 

TENNIS COURT RULES REGISTRATION

(Amended 3-19-13)
 
All members and their guests must check in with the pro shop before entering courts.
 
Each guest must be accompanied by a member. The guest fee is $10.00 per guest. Members are responsible for the conduct of their guests.
 

CLOTHING

 
Appropriate tennis attire should be worn on the courts. Shirts must be worn at all times.

COURTESY

 
Standard court courtesy should be practiced by all. Become familiar with "the code" of the U.S.T.A. Players should refrain from verbal abuses and displays of temper while on the courts.
Please remember to enter and exit the court you are assigned only through the gate leading to the respective court.
 

RESERVATION OF COURTS

 
The tennis shop will close at 8:00 p.m. or when play is finished. The Tennis Director has the discretion to close the pro shop due to weather, activities or events as needed.
 
Court reservations may be made each day beginning at 8:00 a.m. by calling the pro shop at 337-232-0223. Reservations may be made two days in advance and shall consist of two-hour intervals. Each member shall be entitled to have two active reservations at any time.  Specific courts may be requested for Sunday reservations only.
 
Members and guests should begin and end play promptly, and any cancellations of reservations should be made as soon as possible. Reservations will be considered cancelled if the member has not checked in within 15 minutes of the starting time.

 

PRIORITY OF PLAY

 
Special activities and tournaments have preference over other activities.
Adults have preference over junior reservations after 3:00 PM during summer months. Junior reservations are limited to two courts.

MISCELLANEOUS

 
Members are required to help keep their club clean by putting empty cans and trash in the containers. Tennis Professional has right to close any court for repairs.
All towels must be returned to Pro Shop and may not leave the premises.
 

LOCKER ROOM RULES (LADIES AND MEN'S)

 
No articles are to be left in aisles or on top of men's lockers. Hats only may be placed on top of ladies' lockers. Members using locker room for showers and dressing should apply at the Clubhouse office for locker assignment. No one under 16 years of age allowed in locker rooms unless accompanied by parent.
Tipping allowed.
 
No bath towels to be taken from locker rooms. Small golf towels are provided for golf course use. No card playing allowed beyond club closing hours.
Positively no employees working in other areas are permitted in locker rooms at any time unless they are authorized by the manager.
 

GRILL RULES

 
No propping of feet on tables or chairs. No extinguishing of cigarettes on carpet. No smoking in grill.
 

LADIES LOUNGE RULES

 
No one under 16 allowed.  No Smoking.
 
See the GENERAL rule section above regarding restrictions on guest playing cards at Oakbourne Country Club.
 
 

MEN'S LOUNGE AND CARD ROOM RULES

 
No one under 21 years of age allowed.  No Smoking.