What is the classification of a lip wall or face at the edge of a bunker's prepared area?

The classification of a lip wall or face at the edge of a bunker's prepared area is significant in the context of facility management and maintenance of ground features. When stating that it is never part of the bunker, this reflects the understanding that such features are typically external to the bunker itself and serve a specific purpose.

The lip wall acts as a delineation, marking the boundary of the bunker. Its function is not integrally tied to the characteristics of the bunker—such as the sand or surface area within it—but rather serves to indicate an outer limit. This distinction is important for maintenance and management considerations, as it defines responsibility for care and upkeep. The surface and structure of the bunker itself are treated differently than elements that are classified as never being part of it, which allows for clarity in the rules governing play and maintenance.

Understanding this classification helps in navigating facility management practices, ensuring that proper protocols are followed when dealing with different areas of a golf course or any facility that has similar features.