A course owned by a city or county and open to everyone — a "muni." Green fees are usually the lowest around (often $25–50 for 18, with resident discounts) because the goal is public access, not profit. Conditions vary: some munis are scruffy, but others are famous — Bethpage Black and Torrey Pines, both munis, have hosted U.S. Opens. Why it matters: munis are where most golfers learn the game affordably, and tee times can be competitive, so book early.