Rules & Regs - Los Angeles Flag Football

RULES & REGULATIONS

LEAGUE RULES

LAFF follows the NGFFL Rule Book (links below), with minor deviations for league play, e.g., there is no overtime period in regular season league games. LAFF referees will enforce all rules of play and penalties assessed during games, including under certain circumstances, recommending further disciplinary actions to the LAFF Board.

LAFF has specific rules that govern league play and mirror the game rules followed at annual tournaments sanctioned by the NGFFL. Many of these rules are identical to rules in college football such as:

QB is across the line of scrimmage (and therefore cannot make a legal forward pass) if either of his feet are across the line.
Receiver needs to have one foot in bounds with possession of ball for a legal catch.
Downfield blocking is allowed after a receiver makes a catch or during a running play.

Rules that are unique to flag football include:

Only one running play per series is allowed where the ball crosses the line of scrimmage not via a legal forward pass.
There is no penalty for intentional grounding by the QB.
No ‘flag guarding’ is allowed preventing flags from being removed.
Receivers cannot contact defenders when coming off the LOS. Once offensive receivers pass or occupy the same yard line as a defender, that defender cannot obstruct the receiver’s opportunity to move freely about the field.
When rushing as a defender, you must be beyond the neutral zone — 5 yards behind the line of scrimmage. Other defensive players may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ‘primary’ rusher has crossed the line of scrimmage first.

Rule change proposals/suggestions are welcomed from active league members in good standing at any time and will be reviewed by the Assistant Commissioner. If deemed relevant to improving/enhancing the game, rule changes will then be voted on and must be approved by a majority vote of the board, and then considered by active members in good standing. If approved by the membership, the rule change becomes effective with the next scheduled game. Updated rules/rule changes will be communicated to all active league members.

CODE OF ETHICS/CONDUCT

I will remember that playing flag football and involvement with the LA Flag Football League is an opportunity to learn and have fun.
I will do the best I can each day, remembering that all players have talents and weaknesses, the same as I do.
I will adhere to the LAFF Game Rules at all times.
I will control my temper, resisting the temptation of retaliation, and always exercise self-control.
I will never place the value of winning before the safety and welfare of all players.
I will lead by example, demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship at all times.
I will not tolerate inappropriate behavior, regardless of the situation.
I will treat all coaches, players, game officials, administrators and fans with respect at all times, regardless of age, race, gender, creed, sexual orientation or abilities, and I will expect to be treated accordingly.
I will never use abusive or insulting language and will treat everyone with dignity.
Profanity, profane gestures, arguing, inciting disruptive behavior, or any conduct on or off the field that is not in the spirit of good sportsmanship shall not be tolerated and may require disciplinary action from game officials or the league board, including the possibility of suspension.
I expect to play in an environment that is free of drugs and alcohol and expect everyone to refrain from their use at all football games. Post game activities (at the field or the league’s social events) may include the use of alcohol, if permitted by the field permit/facility, and should always be done responsibly, whether at the field or a sponsor venue.
Illegal drugs and unauthorized prescription drugs shall not be possessed, consumed, or distributed before or during any game, or at any other time at the field and/or game complex where it is prohibited.
I will refrain from any activity or conduct that may be detrimental or reflect adversely upon the LA Flag Football League, its members, its Board, or its programs.

Failure to comply with the expectations outlined above may result in the suspension of your privilege to participate in any LA Flag Football sanctioned activities or events.

NOTE: Any individual charged with a violation of this Code of Ethics/Conduct shall be afforded due process.

* Want to report an incident that occurred on or off the field involving LAFF or one of its members or supporters?

INCIDENT REPORT: https://bit.ly/40o5wQg