Maintaining a pristine golf course is no small feat—it takes more than mowing stripes and spraying fairways. A successful irrigation system balances power, precision, and smart control to keep every green, fairway, and fringe in peak condition.

Whether you’re installing a new golf course irrigation system or optimizing your current one, here’s how to build a pro-grade irrigation setup step by step.

Step 1: Choose the Right Sprinkler Heads by Area

Not all sprinkler heads are created equal. To keep your course looking lush from the rough to the green, you need heads that deliver consistent coverage, withstand the elements, and adapt to different turf conditions. Let’s break it down by area so you get the right tool for the job.

For Fairways, Roughs & Large Turf Areas

Fairways, roughs, and large turf areas demand wide coverage, strong water throw, and rugged durability. The right rotor will save water, cut down on labor, and keep your course looking professional with minimal effort.

Rain Bird 5000 Series Rotors

Rain Bird 5000 rotors are the go-to for wide coverage and durability. The Rain Curtain™ nozzle technology delivers large water droplets that resist wind and reach roots more effectively—ideal for fairways and roughs. With adjustable arcs (40° to 360°) and throw distances up to 50 feet, you get custom control across uneven terrain.

Toro T5 RapidSet Rotor

Need a quicker install? The Toro T5 RapidSet rotor offers tool-free arc adjustments in seconds. It’s a great fit for fairways, tee boxes, and perimeters where speed and reliability matter. The 5″ pop-up height helps clear taller turf, and its rugged build keeps maintenance low.

Step 2: Select the Right Pump for Your Water Source

The backbone of any irrigation system is pressure. Without the right pump, even the best sprinklers won’t perform. Your pump choice depends on your water source—whether it’s a shallow pond or a deep reservoir—and the terrain your water has to travel.

For Surface Water Sources: Ponds, Lakes & Reservoirs

Surface water pumps need to be powerful and reliable, capable of delivering high flow rates across long distances. These are ideal for golf courses drawing water from nearby lakes, ponds, or canals.

Munro 2 HP Centrifugal Pumps

The high-flow, high-efficiency Munro 2 HP centrifugal pump is designed to move large volumes of water across golf courses. It’s powerful enough to maintain pressure across multiple zones and can be easily integrated with smart systems. The Munro 2 HP centrifugal pump is ideal for drawing water from nearby surface sources to cover extensive irrigation needs.

For Deep Water or High-Head Applications

If your water is deep underground or your course has significant elevation changes, a submersible pump is essential. These are designed for efficiency and pressure stability, especially over long pipe runs and multi-zone systems.

Munro Multistage Bottom Suction Submersible Pump

If your course pulls water from deep wells or needs to overcome elevation changes, the Munro Multistage Bottom Suction submersible pump is your best bet. It pulls water from the bottom of ponds or reservoirs, maximizing usable volume while maintaining strong, consistent pressure. Energy-efficient and built to resist corrosion, it’s a long-lasting solution for tough jobs.

Step 3: Set Up Smart Controls for Precision Watering

Today’s best golf courses don’t just water—they optimize to save water. Smart irrigation controllers help you make real-time decisions based on weather, soil conditions, and turf needs. From small decorative zones to full-course coverage, there’s a control system that fits all courses and needs.

For Clubhouse Landscapes or Small Zones

For smaller, high-visibility areas such as the clubhouse entrance or ornamental beds, you need a simple, intuitive controller that’s easy to manage from your phone. These systems save water while keeping your landscaping pristine.

Rachio 3 Pro Series 8-Zone Wi-Fi Smart Sprinkler Controller

Ideal for smaller golf course facilities or clubhouse landscapes, the Rachio 3 Pro offers top-tier smart watering with hyper-local weather tracking and app-based control. With intelligent scheduling and automatic rain skips, it conserves water while keeping turf areas green and healthy—all from your phone or tablet.

For Mid-Sized Golf Course Applications

If you’re managing multiple tees, greens, or a few fairways, choose a mid-range controller that offers flexible programming and seasonal adjustments without the learning curve of larger systems.

Rain Bird ESP-TM2 12-Station WiFi Ready Controller

A rugged, flexible option for mid-size applications, the Rain Bird ESP-TM2 combines Rain Bird’s trusted durability with WiFi connectivity (when paired with the LNK WiFi module). It features a simple interface, seasonal adjustments, and automatic weather-based watering—making it a reliable choice for course managers who want control without the complexity.

For Large-Scale or Custom Golf Course Layouts

Full-course irrigation demands a controller that can do it all: modular station expansion, flow monitoring, and weather-based automation. These controllers are built for precision and adaptability on a big scale.

Hunter PRO-C Hydrawise 10-Station WiFi Controller

For large-scale or custom golf course installations, the Hunter PRO-C with Hydrawise technology offers professional-grade irrigation control and remote access. It supports advanced scheduling, flow monitoring, and integration with weather forecasts—ideal for adapting to changing conditions across a golf course. Its modular station expansion also means it can grow with your irrigation needs.

Step 4: Enhance Your System with Smart Add-Ons

What’s the difference between a good system and a great one? Add-ons. 

Add-ons such as sensors, valves, and regulators bring automation, efficiency, and responsiveness to your irrigation setup—helping you save water, time, and money while protecting your turf.

• Pressure Regulators: Maintain consistent pressure across variable terrain.

• Flow Sensors: Catch leaks early and manage water usage.

• Quick-Coupling Valves: Allow for fast, manual spot watering.

• Moisture Sensors: Prevent overwatering and turf damage.

Your Course Deserves the Best Golf Course Irrigation System

From precise surface drip irrigation for greens and tees to powerful rotors for fairways, today’s golf course irrigation systems are more versatile than ever. Surface drip systems, in particular, deliver targeted moisture right where turf needs it most—helping reduce runoff, conserve water, and maintain pristine playing conditions.

Whether you’re managing a PGA-level course or a local favorite, your irrigation setup should work as hard as you do, combining power, precision, and smart design. It takes the right mix of rotors, valves, regulators, and control systems to keep every zone of your course healthy and visually striking.

At Sprinkler Warehouse, we stock the same high-performance gear trusted by top golf course superintendents. Whether you’re building a new irrigation system or upgrading an old one, you’ll find everything you need to keep your course looking championship-ready.

FAQs for Golf Course Irrigation Systems

How much does an irrigation system for a golf course cost?

The cost of a golf course irrigation system can range from $500,000 to over $2 million, depending on the size of the course, system complexity, and whether it’s a full installation or a renovation. Key factors include the number of zones, water source setup, pump station, control systems, and the quality of sprinkler heads and piping.

What is the life expectancy of a golf course irrigation system?

With proper maintenance, a well-installed golf course irrigation system can last 20 to 30 years. However, individual components such as sprinkler heads, pumps, and controllers may need replacement or upgrades every 10 to 15 years to maintain efficiency and adapt to evolving technology.

How are golf courses irrigated?

Golf courses are irrigated using a network of underground pipes, sprinkler heads, and pumps, all controlled by a central irrigation system. These systems are often divided into zones to water greens, tees, fairways, and roughs independently, with smart controllers adjusting schedules based on weather, soil moisture, and turf needs.

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