Wind is a natural force: if it moves your ball at rest, play from the new spot with no penalty and no replacement. You only replace when you or another player cause the move.
Does wind moving your ball cost a penalty?
No — if the wind moves your ball at rest, play it from where it ends up. No penalty, and you don't replace it (Rule 9.3).
Ball moved by wind on the putting green
The same rule applies on the green: wind moves the ball, play it from the new spot.
Ball moved by you vs. by the wind
| Who/what moved it | Result |
|---|---|
| Wind, water, gravity (natural forces) | Play from the new spot — no penalty |
| You accidentally (outside putting green, searching) | Replace it — no penalty (Rule 9.4) |
| You accidentally on the putting green | Replace it — no penalty (Rule 13.1d) |
| Another player or caddie | Replace it — no penalty |
Quick answers
What happens if the wind moves your golf ball? Play it from its new spot — no penalty (Rule 9.3).
Do you get a penalty if wind moves your ball on the putting green? No.
What's the difference between a ball moved by wind and by a player? Natural forces: play from new spot, no penalty. Player-caused: replace it, penalty may apply.
Are you penalized if your ball moves after you address it? Depends on cause — wind/gravity: no penalty; player-caused and virtually certain: penalty applies outside the green.