1. How much space is needed for a golf course?
2. Approximately how much would an 18-hole golf course cost?
3. Are there cheaper alternatives?
4. How long does it take to build an 18-hole facility?

1. The amount of land depends upon slopes, property configuration, and the amount of restrictive site features like wetlands or bedrock. On an ideal site, a typical championship 18-hole facility takes up from 160-180 acres of land including enough room for the course, a clubhouse, parking, a practice facility and maintenance facilities. A full length 9-hole course usually takes up about 80 acres. Smaller par-3 or ‘executive’ courses will consume less land. TOP

2. Cost is very much a function of the quality of the course desired and quality of the land it is being built upon. By far, land quality is the most variable factor in course construction. In the year 2008, a championship 18 hole courses ranges from $4-8 million dollars (US) range excluding consulting fees, land costs, buildings and equipment. A high end course can cost between $8-12 million dollars. Many good quality courses fall in the $5-6 million dollar range if the property is well suited for golf. The choice of site greatly impacts the development costs. If possible, the golf architect should be commissioned to undertake a site suitability analysis if there are options for siting the course. This suitability step can save millions. TOP

3. The best alternative is to have the golf architect aid in site selection. However, the cheaper alternatives to an 18-hole championship facility include an executive course (a shorter course with usually no par-5's that plays much faster), a nine hole course, a par-3 course, a pitch n'putt facility and driving range/mini putt. However, the cost of the greens and irrigation system remain a major cost factor in golf construction and are usually required in the same fashion as a full 18-hole facility. A detailed feasibility assessment should reveal which option best suites the budget and conditions. Call us for up-to-date cost estimates of these options. TOP

4. Depending on permitting requirements and the type of construction, an 18-hole course usually takes up to two years from the detailed design phase to opening. Permitting can add long delays in select areas if not handled by local professionals in association with our experienced team. Construction on difficult sites like landfills, pits or exposed bedrock areas can take up to 3 years from the start of construction. TOP