THE CANADIAN RULE BOOK FOR AMATEUR TACKLE FOOTBALL

RULE 1 - CONDUCT OF THE GAME

SECTION 1. THE FIELD

Article 1-Definition and Markings

(a)                 The field of play shall be 110 yards long by 65 yards wide.  In addition, there shall be an end zone
 20 yards long at each end.  These areas shall be marked as shown in the field diagram. 

(b)                 Sidelines – the lines marking the sides of the field. 

(c)                 Goal Lines – the lines marking the end of the field. 

(d)                 Dead Line – the line 20 yards behind each goal line and parallel to it. 

(e)                 End Zone Sideline – the sideline extended from the goal line to the dead line. 

(f)                  End Zone – the area bounded by the goal line, end zone sidelines, and dead line.  The goal line is part of the end   zone. 

(g)                 Field of Play – the area bounded by the goal lines and the sidelines. 

Article 2 – Boundaries  

The bounds of the playing field are defined as the inside of the sidelines, end zone sidelines and the dead lines.  These boundary lines are out of bounds. 

Article 3 – Field Dimension Measurements  

All measurements shall be taken from the inside edge of any boundary line. 

Article 4 – Distance Lines  

The field of play shall be marked every 5 yards by lines parallel to the goal line, and extending completely across the field between the sidelines. 

Article 5 – Special Lines  

The 35 and 45-yard lines shall be of double thickness or double lines. 

Article 6 – Hash Marks  

Twenty four yards from each sideline, each 5 yard stripe shall be marked by a short cross stripe parallel to the sideline (hash mark). 

Article 7 – Distance Markers  

It is recommended that markers be placed opposite each 5-yard line, indicating the distance of each line from the goal line toward the centre of the field. 

Article 8 – End Zone Markings  

(a)              The four intersections of the goal lines and sidelines, and the four intersections of the dead lines and the end zone sidelines, shall be marked by flexible markers or flags which must be placed so that they are considered out of bounds. 

(b)       If flags are used, the shafts must be a flexible type, not rigid or wooden shafts, in order to preclude injury to players. 

(c)        Flexible markers may be used to prevent injury.  These are soft, flexible, four sided pylons 4”x4” and an overall height of 18 inches, which may include a two inch space between the bottom of the pylon and the ground and be orange or red in colour. 

Article 9 – Goal Post Assembly  

The goal post assembly shall consist of 2 vertical goal posts, 18 feet 6 inches apart, centered on the goal line, the mandatory padding specified in paragraph 2 and the crossbar joining them, whose upper edge is 10 feet above the ground.  The top of the goalposts shall be at least 20 feet above ground level.  For new installations the top of the goalposts should measure 30 feet above ground level. A wishbone type or single shaft goal post may be used if the height and length of the crossbar meet the above standards, and the base of the goal post is not further than 75 inches behind the goal line. 

For safety reasons, all goal posts must be properly padded.  It is the responsibility of the home team to provide the padding.  In the case of a neutral field, the participating teams shall decide which team shall be responsible for padding the goal posts. 

NOTE:   Goal posts on the goal line are considered to be part of the end zone.  

Article 10 – Non-Regulation Fields  

When the length or width of the fields is less than regulation, due to running tracks or other obstructions, a clear set of boundary lines shall be provided, at least 1 foot inside the track or obstruction. 

If an end zone is less than the required 20 yards long, and is enclosed by a track, the dead line and the end zone sideline shall be clearly marked, at least 1 foot inside the curb. 

SECTION 2. THE BALL 

Article 1 – Description  

The game is played with a four-panel ball made of pebbled grain leather, enclosing a rubber bladder and tightly inflated to a pressure of not less than 12 1/2 pounds and not more that 13 1/2 pounds.  It shall be in the shape of a prolate spheroid.  The circumference of the long axis shall be from 27 3/4 to 28 1/2 inches.  Circumference of the short axis shall be from 20 3/4 to 21 3/8 inches.  Length of the long axis shall be 10 7/8 to 11 7/16 inches.  Weight from 14 to 15 ounces.  The decision of the Referee shall be final as to the suitability of the ball. 

Article 2 – Day and Night Games  

For day games the ball shall be of a natural tan in colour.  For night games the ball must be of such colour as will make it clearly visible.  In both day and night games the colour of the ball shall, in no way, closely blend with the colour of the uniforms of the competing teams. 

Article 3 – Wet Day Procedure  

On wet days it is recommended that at least three balls be available which may be changed at the discretion of the Referee.  It is suggested that “ball boys” be used, one on either side of the field, to keep the balls as clean and dry as possible. 

SECTION 3.  THE GAME

Article 1 – Length of Game  

The game shall consist of 60 minutes of actual playing time, divided into 4 periods of 15 minutes each.  For players at the High School level, it is recommended that the game consist of 48 minutes of actual playing time, divided into 4 periods of 12 minutes each. 

Article 2 – Choice of Kick Off, Receiving Kick Off, or End of Field   

At the start of the game, the captain of the visiting team, or the team winning the coin toss, shall declare whether he wishes to have first choice at the start of the first or second half. 

The captain of the team having first choice at the start of the first half shall have the option of one of the three following choices: 

            1.                   Kicking Off
2.                   Receiving the kick off
3.                   Defending an end of the field 

The captain of the other team shall have the option of the 1 or 2 remaining choices.  

At the start of the 3rd period, the procedure shall be reversed.  The team captain having the first choice for the 2nd half shall have the option of the 3 choices above, and the other captain the option of the remaining 1 or 2 choices. 

After a touchdown, the captain of the team scored against shall have the choice of kicking off or receiving the kick off. 

Article 3 – Change of End  

At the end of the 1st and 3rd periods, the teams shall change ends.  At the start of the 2nd and 4th periods, the ball shall be put into play by the team entitled to do so, at a point corresponding exactly to the point where the ball became dead at the opposite end of the field, and in exactly the same manner as if play had not been interrupted by the end of the previous period. 

Article 4 – Half Time  

At the end of the 2nd period, a 20-minute rest period shall be allowed – or such other rest period as the league shall decide. 

Article 5 – Late Start  

The game shall start promptly at the time scheduled.  If a team is late appearing on the field at the start of the 1st or 3rd period:

Penalty – L 10.  No option  

Article 6 – Tie Game  

When the score is tied at the end of the 4th period and it is necessary to declare a winner, the procedure to break the tie shall be the prerogative of the governing football association, with the consideration that the safety of the athlete is of prime importance. 

Any such procedures shall be communicated in writing to both teams, and to the Referee, prior to the game in which the procedure may be used.  In the event that no such regulations have been prepared, the following procedure shall be used. 

There shall be a rest period of 10 minutes, with the teams allowed to return to their dressing rooms. 

Overtime shall be played as a new game of 20 minutes duration, divided into 2 periods of 10 minutes each. 

A coin toss shall be made, with the team winning the toss declaring whether he wishes to have first choice at the start of the first or second half of overtime.  The captain of the team having first choice at the start of the first overtime half shall have the option to kick off, receive the kick off, or defend an end of the field.  The team having the choice at the start of the second overtime half shall have the choice of the 3 options. 

If the score is still tied at the end of the 1st 20-minute overtime, there shall be a 5-minute rest period, with the teams not allowed to return to their dressing room. 

A 2nd 20-minute overtime game will be played, with the same procedure as the 1st  ,starting with a coin toss.  The same procedure will be repeated in complete 20-minute games until one team is declared the winner. 

In the event of darkness, the overtime periods may be shortened to 5 minutes by mutual agreement. 

SECTION 4. TEAMS 

Article 1 – Teams  

Each team consists of 12 players on the field at any one time. 

Article 2 – Team Designation  

The team which puts the ball into play shall be identified as Team A  and the other team as Team B  for identification in Approved Rulings in the Case Book. 

Article 3 – Team Captains  

a)                  At all times, each team shall have on the field a player designated as captain, and so identified to the officials.  He shall be the sole communicator between his team and the officials, through the Referee, and shall be entitled to an explanation of the rules, no prolonged argument is to be allowed and the Referee’s decision cannot be disputed. 

b)        Commenting by a player, or any occupant of the bench, for the supposed benefits of the officials shall be penalized. 

Penalty: Loss of 10 yards. No option.  

c)          A captain will be informed by the Referee when he has a choice to make, such as on a kick off at the start of a half, or after a touchdown or a field goal, or safety touch or in the case of a foul where the captain of the non-offending team shall be given the choice of the penalty, or option provided.  After the choice on a kick off has been communicated to the opponents by the Referee, the choice may not be revoked.  After the choice of penalty or option has been made, the choice may not be revoked. 

d)         The Referee may decline a request a request for a measurement if he is satisfied beyond all reasonable doubt that a first down has or has not been made.

e)                  When the distance chains are called into to determine whether a first down has been made, only the on-field captain of each team shall be permitted in the vicinity of the measurement. 

SECTION 5. TIMING 

Article 1 – Time Starts   

Time shall start on the signal of the Referee when: 

(a)       The ball, following a kick off, touches, or is touched by a player of either team, in bounds. 

(b)       The ball is ready to be scrimmaged. 

(c)       The ball is snapped after a “time count” foul, or after a “time out” due to crowd noise.

(d)       The ball is snapped following a requested time out. 

(e)       The ball is snapped following an incomplete forward pass, or the ball being carried out of bounds, after the 3 minute warning signal has been given in any half, including overtime. 

(f)        The ball is snapped immediately following a play during which possession changes after the 3 minute warning signal has been given in any half, including overtime.  This includes the change of possession after a score of 1 or 3 points when the ball is put into play by a scrimmage.

(g)        The ball is snapped on a play immediately following a kick off, a kick from scrimmage, a return kick, or an open
            field kick after the 3 minute warning signal has been given in any half, including overtime.  

(h)       The ball is snapped after the penalty application for a foul which occurs after the 3 minute warning signal has been given in any half, including overtime.  The no-offending team may decline the penalty and permit time to resume as though a foul had not occurred. 

(i)         If after the last 3 minutes warning signal in any half, including overtime, either team commits a foul before the ball can be snapped, except a time count foul. The non-offending team shall have the option to:

           (1)  Accept the penalty.  The time clock will start on the snap of the ball.
OR     (2)   Decline the distance portion of the penalty.  The time clock will start on the snap of the
                  ball.
OR     (3)   Decline the penalty.  The time clock will start with the signal of the Referee when the 
                  ball is ready to be scrimmaged.      

Article 2 – Time Stops  

Time shall stop on the signal of a field official when:   
(a)           A score has been made and throughout any convert attempt.
(b)           A live ball goes out of bounds.
(c)           A forward pass is incomplete.
(d)           Penalty application is required.
(e)           Player substitution is requested.
(f)            Player injury occurs.  Time stops after the ball is dead and the injured player must be replaced.   
(g)           Time expires at the end of a period.   
(h)           First down distance has been made.  Time stops after the ball is dead.   
(i)            The ball becomes dead after the three-minute warning signal in any half, including overtime.   
(j)            Any field official recognizes a request for a time out.   
(k)           The Referee feels it necessary to suspend play – defective equipment, measurements, etc.
 

Article 3 – End of Period  

If in any period, the ball becomes dead with only a short period of time remaining, the team in possession shall be entitled to one complete play even though that play may extend beyond the normal termination of that period. 

Where the last play is a legally scored touchdown, the period will be extended for the convert attempt following the touchdown.  The period will end when the ball is declared dead on the convert, without a foul.  If a foul occurs, 
See Rule 1, Section 5, Article 6. (Foul in the Last Play of Period)
 

Article 4 – Time Out  

Each team shall be entitled to two time outs in each half of a game, and in each half of overtime.  Each time out is 1 minute long.  Any player may request a time out from the time the ball becomes dead until it is put into play.  Time outs may not be accumulated from one half to the next. 

After a time out, and any conference with the coaches, Team A players shall not remain in close proximity to their bench, but must return to their huddle, or move clearly away from the team bench area, if they are not using a huddle, or be penalized for illegal procedure.

Penalty: L5 PLS DR
 

Article 5 – Crowd Noise  

The Team A captain may request the Referee to stop the game if excessive crowd noise prevents Team A from putting the ball into play.  The Referee, if he agrees with the captain, may permit Team A to return to its huddle.  The Referee shall allow a reasonable time, but under no circumstances shall he permit the play to be delayed more than 3 times. 

Article 6 – Foul in the Last Play of Period  

If in any period, time expires during a play in which a foul occurs, the non-offending team has the option to:

            (a)                 Accept the penalty, in which case the team entitled to possession shall be required to put the ball into play
             and the period extended for that play,
                                                               OR
(b)                 Decline the penalty and accept the play as it terminated, in which case the period is ended.
 

Should the play be terminated by an official’s whistle prior to the ball being put into play, the period shall be extended for another play. 

If a foul occurs during the last play of a period, including a convert, the non-offending team may decline the penalty in order to terminate the period.  If the foul is Unnecessary Roughness or Rough Play, the non-offending team will have the option to have the penalty applied in the same period, in which case another play will take place, or to have the penalty applied on the opening play of the next period.   

If a time count foul occurs on the convert, the penalty will be applied on a repeated convert, with no option to apply the penalty on the kickoff.

If the last play of the period is a legally scored touchdown, any penalty for UR, RP occurring during the play, or during the interval between the touchdown and the convert, may be applied at the option of the non-offending team as follows:

                                    (1)  on the convert following a touchdown
                            OR   (2) on the kick off in the same period
                            OR   (3) on a kick off to open the next period

If the foul is committed in the end zone, and the penalty for the foul would award a score to the non-offending team, the non-offending team may accept the penalty and the resultant score, and may also elect to terminate the period.

If the last play of the period is a legally scored touchdown, Objectionable Conduct or no mouth guard occurring during the play, or during the interval between the touchdown and the convert, may be applied at the option of the non-offending team, as follows:

              (1)      on the convert following the touchdown                          
OR   (2)   on a kick off to open the next period. 

If the foul is Objectionable Conduct or No Mouthguard, on the convert, the penalty will be applied on the opening play of the next period (Rule 1 –11 Penalty cRule 7-4 Penalty). 

NOTE:   An offside pass is not a foul.  

SECTION 6. POSSESSION 

Article 1 – Player Possession  

A player is in possession if he has the ball firmly held in the hand or hands, arm or arms, leg or legs or under his body. 

Article 2 – Disputed Possession  

When players of opposite teams have possession of the ball, it shall belong to the player who first gained possession, and who has not lost possession. 

Article 3 – Simultaneous Possession  

If players of opposite teams legally gain simultaneous possession of the ball, it shall belong to the team, which last previously had possession. 

If a forward pass is caught simultaneously be eligible receivers of both teams, the ball shall belong to Team A (Rule 6-4-6-c) 

If a kick off is legally caught simultaneously by players of opposite teams:

-          Before it has been touched by any other player after the kick off – kick off repeated at the previous line of kick off. 

-         After it has been touched by another player, or players – possession to the team which last touched it before the simultaneous possession. 

Article 4 – Change of Possession

Change of possession occurs as follows: 

(a)               Scrimmage Play – Team A is in possession until it loses possession.  Team B is in possession when B player gains possession.  Between these times, the ball is in neither team’s possession and is a “loose ball.” 

(b)               Forward Pass – Team A is in possession until the pass is ruled incomplete, or the ball is intercepted by Team B.  Team B is in possession when a B player intercepts the pass. 

(c)               Scrimmage Kick – Team A is in possession until the ball is kicked.  Team B is in possession when a B player gains possession.  Between these times. The ball is in neither team’s possession and is a ball “in flight.” 

(d)               Return Kick – Team B is in possession until the B player has kicked the ball, which is then “in flight” until either Team A or Team B regains possession. 

(e)                 Kick Off – Neither team is in possession prior to the kick off.  Team B is in possession when a B player gains possession.  Until Team B or Team A gain possession, the ball is in neither team’s possession and is a ball “in flight.” 

NOTE: These definitions will apply when penalty applications are involved with "before change of possession"  "loose ball"," ball in flight", or "after change of possession".  

SECTION 7.  LIVE BALL 

Article 1 – Ball in Play  

The ball is in play when: 

(a)           It has been put into play by a kick off or scrimmage, until a field official stops play by sounding his whistle. 

(b)           It strikes an official who is not out of bounds, except on a forward pass. 

(c)           It is on the ground not in possession of a player. 

(d)           It is held in position by a player for the purpose of making a place kick, except on a kick off. 

(e)           A forward pass is intercepted by a player in his end zone. 

(f)            An offside pass is made and /or the ball goes loose. 

(g)           A ball is dribbled in bounds. 

(h)           A dribbled ball hits the goal post assembly. 

(i)            A kicked ball hits the goal post assembly after striking the ground, a player or official, or after being kicked from
   the end zone.
   

Article 2 – Injury Stoppage  

The play shall not be stopped because of player injury, or to impose a penalty until the ball is dead. 

No delay shall be allowed for player injury, or for any other reason, except by permission of the Referee, who has the full authority to require the immediate removal from the field of a player who may require the services of a trainer or doctor. 

Penalty for unauthorized delay: L10, No option  

So as not to penalize teams unduly, the Referee will call an official time out of no more than two (2) minutes to allow for medical attention and/or care of equipment related to bleeding.  Neither Team shall be charged with a time out. 
(Refer to Code of Ethics – Responsibilities to Players – 7, 8 ) 

SECTION 8. DEAD BALL 

Article 1  

The ball becomes dead when: 

(a)                 A field official blows his whistle to end play  (NOTE  4)  

(b)                 The ball, or a player with the ball in his possession, goes out of bounds. 

(c)                 Any score is made. 

(d)                 The ball carrier is tackled, held and his forward progress is stopped.  (See NOTES 1, 2, 3 )  

(e)                A forward pass is declared incomplete, or it strikes a game official, the goal post assembly, downs box marker or distance chain rod. 

(f)                  It is in possession of a player lying on the ground or is being held by a player for a kick off, prior to the kick off. 

(g)               It strikes the opponent’s goal post assembly "in flight" from a punt, return kick, place kick or kick off without touching the ground, a player or an official after being kicked provided that such kick originated in the field of play. When this occurs on a field goal or convert attempt, the play shall be whistled dead, but the ball will remain alive until the score is made or missed. 

(h)               Any part of a ball carrier, other than his hands or feet touches the ground, even without contact by an opponent.  The ball shall be dead AT THE POINT WHERE IT WAS HELD when the ball carrier touched the ground. 

Exceptions: The ball is not dead when a player:

            (1)         is holding the ball for a field goal or convert attempt.
(2)        goes to one or both knees in making a catch from a punt, place kick or kick off from an opponent,
        provided such action is part of the attempt to catch the ball.
(3)        goes to one or both knees in attempting to catch the ball on a snap from centre, provided such action
         is part of the attempt to catch the ball. 

NOTE 1:      When a ball carrier is tackled and driven back towards his own goal line, it is assumed that he was
                    attempting to advance the ball, and that only the contact with the opponent prevented the advance, therefore,
                    the most  forward point of advance is considered to be the point where the ball became dead. 

NOTE 2:           If the ball carrier who is contacted by the opponent breaks the tackle and in his effort to advance the ball, retreats toward his own goal line, the point of advance where the ball becomes dead is considered as the point at which he is subsequently held.  

NOTE 3:          When a player is carrying the ball out of his end zone, and he is contacted by an opponent, so that the force of the opponent’s contact drives him back into his end zone, but he is not held, he is still free to advance the ball.  If the ball subsequently goes dead in his end zone, in his team’s possession, without having again left the end zone, the defending team shall be awarded 1 or 2 points as applicable. 

                        If the ball is subsequently carried out of the end zone, the forward point of advance will be the point where the ball becomes dead. (Exception: Rule 3, Section 2, Article 4) 

NOTE 4:     When the whistle is blown inadvertently and the ball is: 

(1)   In Team A possession –

      DNG - Team A option   - PLS DR
                                                        - PBH downs continued
                              DG – PBH and 1D 

            (2)   In Team B possession                 - PBH and 1D 

            (3)   Loose on a fumble, or offside pass, possession will be given to the team last in possession at the point
                    where possession was lost or at the Point of Origin of Pass, and downs continue.    

If a foul, which normally would award possession to the non-offending team, is called at the same time as the inadvertent whistle is blown (e.g. offside “A” illegally first touches a kick or commits a restraining zone foul: illegal interference on a loose ball, etc.)  possession will be awarded to the non-offending team at the point of foul, and the appropriate yardage, if applicable, shall be applied at that point.

Loose on a lateral pass, possession will be given to the team last in possession, at the POP, downs continue, or at PLS, DR.   

If possession has changed prior to the lateral pass and inadvertent whistle at POP. 

(4)       In the air on a forward pass; or a punt or attempted field goal which lands on the field of play – PLS DR  (see 5, 6, 7,  below)  

(5)        In the air on an attempted field goal, which is successful  or on a punt kicked out of the end zone in flight, the score shall count.  Play will continue as after any successful field goal, or rouge as applicable. 

(6)       In the air on an unsuccessful field goal which lands in the end zone, a punt which lands in the end zone, or such a kick which lands in the end zone and goes out of bounds in the end zone.  Team B option – allow Team A 1 point and Team B 1D at B 35 or at PLS if rouge is after an unsuccessful field goal attempt or Team A PLS DR.        

(7)        In the air on a return kick from the end zone or on a kick or return kick from the end zone which hits the goal post assembly in flight.  – cancel the entire play – Team A – PLS DR. 

      (8)        In the air on a punt or unsuccessful field goal, from the field of play, which hits the goal post assembly in flight or after hitting the ground – Team B – 1D at the B 20. 

       (9)       In the air on a punt or field goal  which is kicked out of bounds in flight, the regular ruling applies- 
(a)    Field of Play – Team B 1D at the out-of-bounds point (hash mark)
(b)    End Zone – score (1 pt) Team B 1D at the appropriate point. 

      (10)      In play on a 2 point conversion, the convert attempt will be repeated at PLS. 

      (11)      In the air on an attempted 1 point conversion.  If the kick is successful, 1 point shall be scored; if the kick is not successful, the convert attempt is completed; the ball will be put in play by a normal kick off following a convert. 

      (12)      Kicked on a kick off, strikes the ground or a player and then hits the goal post assembly, and then the whistle is blown, repeat the kick off at the point of previous kick off. 

      (13)     Any fouls, which occur during the play  will be administered  as they would be in a regular play situation on which no whistle had been blown. 

SECTION 9. END ZONE

Article 1 – Definition  

The ball is in the End Zone when: 

(a)         Any part of the ball is on or behind the goal line, even in the air. 

(b)       Any part of the ball touches the "plane" of the goal line. 

The ball is not in the End Zone when the whole ball is completely ahead of the goal line, or the "plane" of the goal line. 

SECTION 10. OUT OF BOUNDS 

Article 1 - Definition  

The ball is out of bounds when: 

(a)                It touches any boundary line, or the ground or any object on or beyond these lines, including an official, any player or substitute. 

(b)               A player with the ball in his possession touches any boundary line, or the ground or any object beyond these lines, except a field official or another player who is out of bounds, while the ball carrier is fully in bounds. 

Article 2 – Carried Out of Bounds  

When the ball is carried out of bounds on the field of play; it shall belong to the team carrying it out of bounds, at the point where the ball crossed the line before it went out of bounds, except on third down when the required distance has not been gained. 

Article 3 – Kicked Out of Bounds  

(a)                 When the ball is kicked out of bounds on the field of play, it shall belong to the opposite team, subject to the option of penalty applicable on the play.   

(b)                 When a player kicks a ball out of bounds in his own end zone, it will result in a score of 1 or 2 points, unless the ball is in the end zone from a forward pass intercepted in the end zone, or as a result of a fumble into the end zone by an opponent. 

Article 4 – Forward Pass Thrown Out of Bounds  

A ball thrown out of bounds on a forward pass shall remain in possession of the passing team, except on third down when the required distance has not been gained.  

Article 5 – Last Touched  

With the exception of article 4 above, a ball which is fumbled out of bounds, or touches a player in the field of play and then goes out of bounds, shall belong to the team which last touched the ball, 24 yards in from the sideline at whichever point is closer to the goal line of the team entitled to possession, as follows: 

(a)           Where the ball went out of bounds, 
                                         OR
(b)           Where the ball was last touched in the field of play.
 

NOTE:    Rulings on kicked ball blocked out of boundsSee Rule 5, Section 3, Articles 3,4. 

Article 6 – Into End Zone  

(a)       When a player fumbles the ball from the field of play directly over the opponents’ goal line and then out of bounds in the end zone without the ball touching an opponent, it shall be ruled as a fumble, out of bounds, in the field of play, with the ball declared dead at the point where it was last touched in the field of play. 

(b)       When a player fumbles the ball over the opponents’ goal line, and it is last touched by a teammate without gaining possession and then goes out of bounds in the end zone, the ball shall be awarded to the team making the fumble, at the point of original fumble. 

(c)       When a player fumbles the ball over the opponent’s goal line, where it is recovered by an opponent, or it is last touched by an opponent without gaining possession, and then goes out of bounds in the end zone, there shall be no score and the ball shall be awarded to the opponent, at any point between the hash marks on the 10 yard line if the ball goes dead in the end zone. Exception – Blocked Kick – Rule 5, Section 3, Article 4. 

NOTE: If the team recovering the ball in his own end zone commits a foul while attempting to advance the ball out of the end zone, there shall be no score and the penalty shall be applied at the 10 yard line (UR, RP etc., may be applied at PBD) 

Article 7 – From End Zone  

(a)       When a player fumbles the ball in his own end zone, to out of bounds in the end zone, even if touched by another player, a score of 1 or 2 points shall be awarded as applicable (NOTE  1). 

 (b)      When a player fumbles the ball from his own end zone, over the goal line, and then out of bounds, without the ball touching an opponent, it shall be ruled as an offside pass in the end zone (NOTE  1).  

            Penalty: Team A -   1.2 D safety touch to B, or B option to allow A to scrimmage 24 yards in from the
                                             out-of-bounds point, downs continue.  
                          
              
               -   3D safety touch to B, or B possession 24 yards in from out-of-bounds point.

                           Team B -  1 or 2 points as applicable, or A option to allow B to scrimmage 24 yards in from the
                                             out-of-bounds point.

  NOTE 1:    Exception – no score in (a) or (b) if the ball is in the end zone from a forward pass intercepted in the end
                    zone, or as a result of a fumble into the end zone by an opponent, or if the ball carrier has been knocked back
                    into the end zone by an opponent and is not subsequently free to advance the ball.
  

Article 8 – Player Out of Bounds  

A player who goes out of bounds either by intent or misjudgment, or in order to use the out-of-bounds area to his advantage, must not participate further in that play.  A player who goes out of bounds as a result of contact with an opponent, a missed block or tackle, or who slides out of bounds on slippery field may legally return to the field and participate in the play.  The point of the foul (PF) is the point where the illegal participation occurs. 

NOTE:   This article does not apply to a ball carrier who goes out of bounds, which makes the ball automatically  dead .                          

Penalty: Team A  1.2D – L10 DR,  3D DG – L10 DR, DNG – LB PBD 
  
Team B  L10 PLS, PBH or PF.
 

SECTION 11. UNIFORM  & EQUIPMENT 

Article 1 – General  

(a)                 No player shall wear equipment of any kind which may injure the opponent, except as necessary in the manufacture of protective equipment. The Referee may have removed from the game any player who is wearing equipment which in his opinion endangers the opponents. 

(b)                 No team shall wear uniforms that blend closely with the color of the ball. 

(c)                 The following equipment is mandatory and shall be worn by all players.  The equipment shall be designed and manufactured by a professional manufacturer, and shall not be altered in any way which may decrease the protection of the player:

1- Soft knee pads at least ½ inch thick, worn over the knees and covered by the pants.  
2- Thigh guards.
3- Hip pads, with tailbone protector.
4- Shoulder pads.
5- Mouthguard covering all the upper jaw teeth, as specified in Article 3 of this Section 11.
6- Shoes which meet the specifications as in article 4 of this Section 11, or which may provide less fixation to the ground, such as ripple soles, ore broomball type shoes, where no “cleats” are provided.  No player shall participate in the game without being properly equipped, and wearing shoes as specified. 

(d)                 Adhesive material, grease or any other slippery substance, applied on a player’s person or clothing, that affects the
             ball or an opponent, is illegal. 

(e)        All players’ numbers must conform to those listed on the score sheet.  Players shall retain the same numbers throughout the game, except when permission to change is given by the Referee.  Where a sweater is torn, the Referee shall allow reasonable time for a substitution, but any change in number must be reported to the scorer. 

Penalty: (a) (b) (d) (e):  the offending player shall be removed from the game until the illegal equipment is
               replaced or the score sheet is corrected. 
  

               Immediate substitution will be made but the game shall not be delayed.  

Penalty: (c)   L5 from point where the ball would have been put into play, if no other foul had occurred, or added
               to the penalty for any other foul.  The offending player shall be removed from the game until the illegal
               equipment is replaced. Immediate substitution will be made, but the game shall not be delayed. If more
               than 1  player offends on the  same  play, only 1 penalty L5 will be applied for that play. Fouls on
               subsequent  plays will be penalized in the same way – L5 on each play where 1 or more players offend.

Article 2 – Helmets and Imitation of the Ball  

(a)                 It is recommended that only helmets approved by the National Operating Committee on Safety in Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) be worn by players. 

(b)                 A player shall be required to wear his helmet while in bounds, and shall not voluntarily remove while the play is in progress.  The use of the helmet or other objects to deceive opponents as to the location of the ball is illegal. 

(c)                 The use of tactics to deceive opponents such as the alleged need for equipment such as a tee, mouthguard etc; or the pretense of calling players toward the bench as if a time out had been called, is illegal. 

Penalty:  1.2D-L5 DR,  3D DG-L5 DR,  3D DNG-LB PBD  

Article 3 – Mouthguard  

A player shall wear an intra-oral (within the mouth) mouth and tooth protector, which includes an occlusial (protecting and separating the biting surfaces) and a labial (protecting the lips) portion. It is also recommended that the protector be either (a) constructed from a model made from an impression of the individual’s teeth, or (b) constructed and fitted to the individual by impressing his teeth into the mouth and tooth protector itself. 

It shall be illegal for a player to participate in the game unless the mouthguard is being worn in the proper position by the player. 

Penalty:  

1st Infraction - The Referee only shall clearly warn the offending player that the mouthguard must be in the proper position while participating. 

2nd  & subsequent infractions by any player previously warned as above by the Referee – L5 from the point where the ball would have been put in play if no foul had occurred.  The player shall be removed until properly equipped.  Immediate substitution shall be allowed.  

NOTE 1:    Subsequent infractions, if deemed deliberate, will be ruled and penalized as objectionable conduct. 

NOTE 2:    A penalty card or similar card should be used to record the number of the player warned, in order to ensure  
                   accuracy.        

Article 4 – Footwear  

Natural Turf – For play on natural turf, a shoe with the following specifications will be accepted: 

            ( i)                 Minimum of 7 cleats per sole, with a minimum cleat tip diameter of 3/16 inch (4.8 mm.).
            (ii)                  Additional cleats may be of lesser tip diameter, provided the maximum length is ½ inch (12.7 mm.).
            (iii)                Maximum cleat length of ½ inch (12.7 mm.).
            (iv)                A cleat made of metal or metal tip is illegal. 

NOTE 1:          Illegal cleats include those made of metal, or with a metal tip, or made of any material that burrs, chips, of fractures. 

Penalty:          L5 from point where the ball would have been put into play if no other foul had occurred or added to the penalty for any other foul.  If more than 1 player offends on the same play, only 1 penalty L5 will be applied on that play.  The offending player shall be removed from the game until the illegal equipment is replaced.  Immediate substitution will be made, but the game shall not be delayed.  

Article 5 – Coaches Certification  

The head coach, or his designated representative, shall certify to the umpire before the game that all players: 

(a)      Have been informed of the mandatory equipment specified in the rules, and what equipment is illegal. 

(b)      Have been provided with the mandatory equipment as specified in the rules. 

(c)       Have been instructed to wear the mandatory equipment, and how to wear it during the game. 

(d)       Have been instructed to notify the coaching staff when equipment becomes illegal for any reason during the game. 

Article 6 – Game Equipment  

The following equipment shall be provided for the use of the minor officials as follows: 

(a)                 Distance chain – two rods shall be connected near the lower end with a chain so that the distance between the rods is exactly 10 yards.  The rods shall be made of wood or aluminum, at least 6 feet high, preferably with a distinctive marking device at the top of each rod. 

(b)                 Downsbox – shall be a wooden or aluminum post, with plates or a box numbered from 1 to 3, with numbers at  
 least 10 inches high, and clearly visible to all officials and players. 

(c)                 Timer’s Flag – shall be a standard flag, preferably of contrasting colours to make it visible from any part of the 
 field. 

(d)                 Stop watch or Timer’s clock.

SECTION 12. PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTES 

Article 1 – Registration  

All players must be registered by name and number with the scorer prior to the start of each game. 

Penalty:  The offending player shall be removed from the game until the score sheet has been corrected. Immediate substitution will be made and the game shall not be delayed. 

NOTE 1:  Any score made by a non-registered player is legal, provided the player is then registered on the score sheet 

Article 2 – Substitution Procedure 

(a)   Substitutes may enter the field of play when the ball is dead and only at that time. 

(b)  A player leaving the game shall proceed directly to the sideline on which his bench is located, and then to his bench in
       the out-of-bounds area. 

(c)   The sideline officials (Head Linesman and Line Judge) shall control the substitutes.  As soon as possible after the ball is
       dead on a play, they shall observe their sidelines for possible substitutes, until Team A breaks its huddle.  At this time, 
       they will raise their arms to shoulder level, after which no substitute shall enter the field for any reason – regardless of
       the  number of players a team may have on the field.

(d)  The use of substitution proceedings, or alleged substitution proceedings to deceive the opponents is illegal.  If one or
       more Team A players or substitutes legally enter or leave the field, a sleeper play is illegal on the subsequent play.
     
(A sleeper play is a pass play designed to catch the defense out of position. It is usually set up by leaving one A player
       at or near one sideline, while the play moves the ball to the opposite side of the field.  Team A lines up quickly, snaps
       the ball, and throws a pass to the remote A player.  There is no requirement for any player to return to the huddle after
       each play, or after a substitution or even to have a huddle.  After an A substitution, or alleged substitution, such a
       sleeper pass is illegal on the subsequent play.  Other plays such as a running play, or a pass play to other A players
       who are with the remainder of the team, and not in the same area as the remote A player, are legal)  

(e)  A substitute who enters the field to the extent that he is able to communicate with a member of his team must remain
       on the filed for the subsequent play.  

Penalty:  Team A 1.2D – L10 DR,  3D DG – L10 DR,  3D DNG – LB PBD.
 
              Team B L10

Article 3 – Excess Number of Players  

It is illegal for a team to have more than 12 players and /or substitutes on the field during a play, through an error in substitution or otherwise. 

Penalty:  Team A  1.2D – L10 DR, 3D DG – L10 DR, 3D DNG – LB PBD.
                
Team B  L10 

NOTE:  Coaches, not officials are responsible for fielding the correct number of players.

SECTION 13. NON PLAYERS

Article 1 – Sideline Privileges & Restrictions  

(a)                 During the game, the only persons who may legally occupy any position on the sidelines are: field officials, the downsman, the linesmen, the time keeper, and the scorer.

(b)                 During the game, the team bench area may be occupied only by substitute players, and other authorized non-playing personnel of the team, consisting of coaches, doctors, trainers, and equipment men, who must remain in close proximity of their bench and must not encroach on the sidelines or playing field while play is in progress.  The team bench area shall be located a minimum of 5 yards and a maximum of 10 yards from the sideline.  The area shall be enclosed by a line 4 inches wide, which is located at least 2 yards minimum, and 5 yards optimum from the sideline, and a line at each end of the bench 5 yards from the end. (See Field Drawing)  Occupants of the bench shall remain within the enclosed area, except during legal substitution proceedings, or by express permission of the Referee, in order to keep the sideline clear for both officials and coaches.

Penalty:  L10, No option, from point where the ball would have been put in play if no foul had occurred.

Article 2 – Playing Coach  

A coach who is playing with his team shall be considered as a player when on the field.  A coach who is operating as a trainer shall restrict himself to trainer’s duties while attending an injured player on the field and refrain from performing coaching duties at that time. 

Penalty:  L5 PBD  

Article 3 – Time-Out Conferences  

During an official time out, a conference at the sideline between coaches and players of each team is legal.  A similar conference is legal whenever the clock is stopped and a significant time delay occurs, e.g. a measurement, injury, TV commercial, etc. 

Article 4 – Interference by Unauthorized Persons  

An unauthorized person shall not enter or reach into the field while play is in progress and/or interfere with a player of either team, or with a loose ball: 

(a)      Acting to the advantage of the team in possession. 

Penalty: If it is obvious to the Referee that a score (such as a rouge or safety touch) would have been made, he
               shall award the score.  If not, L10 PBH.
 

(b)      Acting to the advantage of the team not in possession. 

Penalty:  If it is obvious to the Referee that a touchdown would have been scored, or if the unauthorized person
                is a substitute, coach, trainer or other occupant of the team bench, he shall award the touchdown.  If
                not the non-offending team shall be awarded:

                            (1)      Half the distance to the goal line from PLS or PBD.  
                (2)       For illegal interference on a forward pass –  
                         -Field of Play  – Half the distance to the goal line from PF.
 

                         -End Zone      - against Team A, award the ball to team A at the 1-yard line. (unless a touchdown
                                                   is awarded )
                                                 -against team B, award the ball to team B at the 10 yard Line.

                             (3)    3 downs, regardless of time remaining in the period (unless Team A scores on 1st or 2nd down, or
                        loses possession on 1st or 2nd down, with Team B making a legal recovery)  

(c)    Touching or kicking a loose ball.  

Penalty:             If it is obvious to the Referee that a score would have been made, he shall award the score.  If the person is a substitute, coach, trainer, or other occupant of the team bench, his team will be penalized half the distance to their goal line from PF.  If the non-offending team was previously in possession, or was normally expecting to gain possession by receiving a scrimmage kick, it shall be awarded the ball, and 3 additional downs shall be awarded regardless of time remaining, (unless Team A scores on 1st or 2nd down, or loses possession with Team B making a legal recovery).

                        If the person is not associated with a team as described in (d) below, the play shall be repeated at PLS , subject to any team penalties which will be applied at PLS.

(d)       If the unauthorized person is a substitute, coach, trainer, or other occupant of a team bench:  

Penalty:     Disqualification from further participation in any capacity.  

Article 5 – Injuries

During a stoppage in play for injury, or other reason, no more than 2 representatives of each team shall be allowed to enter the field (including water boys) and then only with the Referee’s permission. 

Doctors are not included in the restriction to 2 attendants, and there are not restrictions regarding the number of doctors allowed to attend an injured player. 

The Referee need not permit the attendants of both teams to enter the field in case of injury to a player of 1 team only.  He shall indicate his permission to attendants of one or both teams. 

When time out has been called for a player injury or for equipment repair, that player shall be required to leave the game for at least one play.  If a team time out is called and the player injury has been properly treated or the equipment has been repaired satisfactorily at the end of the time out, the player may re-enter the game without penalty. 

Penalty:  L10, No option.