Rules & Procedures for Bowling Games

The sport of bowling does not have many rules attached to it, but the ones that are included must be followed each time a player throws a ball. In addition to obeying the bowling rulebook, players should also be aware of the unwritten rules of etiquette that govern play in most leagues and tournaments.

  1. Game Play

    • Once a bowling ball crosses the foul line, it is a live ball. Players may use any form or style they choose, but the ball must be thrown manually and players may not switch hands during a game except in the case of injury. The only exception to this rule applies to players with disabilities who require the use of a ball-rolling device. If any part of a player's body touches any part of the lane beyond the foul line, a foul results. The delivery still counts, but the player earns no score for the throw. If the player commits a deliberate foul, he earns zero points and forfeits his second throw if pins are left standing.

    Dead Ball

    • On rare occasions, players will have a throw result in a dead-ball ruling. This occurs when a player throws a ball when the incorrect number of pins have been placed on the lane, or if a human pinsetter interferes with a player's throw or the pins on the lane. A dead ball is also called if a player makes a throw on the incorrect lane, or if the ball comes in contact with an object on the lane. Interference from a fellow player also leads to a dead-ball call. The dead ball doesn't count toward a player's final score. The pins are reset, and the player is permitted to throw her ball again.

    Etiquette

    • Etiquette is a major part of the bowling culture. Players are encouraged to bowl "the right way" to ensure league nights, tournaments and other competitions run smoothly. The biggest rule of bowling etiquette involves staying off the approach when bowlers on either side are already preparing to throw. If a bowler on Lane 5 sees a bowler on Lane 4 or 6 getting ready to throw, he should remain on the back of his lane until the other players finish their approach and release. This is not a major issue in one-on-one matches, but during busy league nights or large tournaments, players are not only encouraged to give way to other bowlers---it is expected of them.