Many golf courses around the state will reopen this weekend after having been closed to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Although many golfers are eager to get back on to the greens, they should know that there will be a few changes to help promote safety. And for good reason, according to Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo, who recently recovered from a mild case of the virus.

“People are still getting sick. This is not over. We’re like in halftime. There’s a way to go,” DiVincenzo says. “They have to take that into consideration when enjoying themselves, going to parks and golf courses.”

The rules at all of the courses include expanding tee times to 16 minutes apart. Only two golfers will be permitted per tee time and one person per cart unless it is a family member or caregiver. Course staff will have to sanitize everything frequently.

Golfers will also have to bring their own bags and golf clubs. There will not be any rentals or any caddies. Pro shops and most other buildings on the campuses will remain closed.

Bookings must be made in advance when possible and social distancing guidelines must be followed. Golfers will also be asked to wear a face covering.

The head of the New Jersey Golf Association says that he plans to do whatever it takes to make sure that golfers follow the rules so that the courses can stay open.

“We can’t screw this up right now. We need to be responsible. It’s in our hands. Let’s get to the golf course, enjoy the day, play some golf, enjoy the company of the people we're playing with, get in the car and go home,” says Kevin Purcell.

Not all golf courses will be open by the weekend. Galloping Hill in Kenilworth says that it will open by next week so that crews can do maintenance and prepare for the new rules.