As you know, there are a few specific scenarios in which scores are unacceptable to your Handicap Index (but only a few!). One of these has to do with the length of the golf course played, and within the Handicap System, size matters! 

From the USGA Handicap System Manual’s list of “Unacceptable Scores”, rounds made on shorter courses are not to be posted.  But what does “short” mean, exactly? Here’s the rule from Section 5-1e:

Scores are not acceptable to a Handicap Index when made on a course less than 3,000 yards for 18 holes or less than 1,500 yards for 9 holes.

If the course exceeds those parameters, it is evaluated under the USGA Course Rating System and an official Course and Slope Rating is published so that scores may be posted for handicap purposes. 

While size matters, so do words! It’s important to point out that when we say “course” we are really referring to “tees”. Meaning, a set of tees far forward could be less than the stated yardage standard, and therefore couldn’t be rated as per the USGA Course Rating System.

A little-known USGA Handicap System Decision provides further explanation:

Section 5-1e/1. Returning Scores Made at Par-3 Golf Courses
Q: Why is it not permissible for a Handicap Index to be computed from scores made on par-3 courses which are less than 3,000 yards in length?
A: Such courses do not normally require the use of a full set of clubs. It would not be equitable to handicap players on such short courses on the same basis as players on standard courses. A score on such a course is analogous to a score made in a competition that limits types of clubs. Such scores are not acceptable.