Rules Updates

The 2024 Handbook provides a detailed description of all game rules. The following are slo-pitch rules considered to be important to remember especially for new players. Players are encouraged to read the Handbook for more details on our rules.

  • NEW FOR 2024. Hot  Weather Policy. Any time the projected high is above 30 degrees Celsius, or the Humidex exceeds 40 degrees, the schedule will change as follows. One of the 11:00 o’clock games will be moved to 9:30 at diamond 4 and the other will be postponed and rescheduled. We will also reduce the games played on those days to 5 innings instead of 7.
  • NEW FOR 2024. To reduce the risk of injury, the League is introducing pitching screens this year. Pitchers are no longer required to wear masks but are encouraged to do so for extra protection. The pitching screen will be located 2 bat lengths in front of the pitching rubber. See the Equipment section of the Handbook for more on the rules around pitching screens.
  • NEW FOR 2024. Force Plays now apply only if the runner is compelled to run.  If the runner is not forced, they must be tagged out.  (Regular softball rules.)
  • NEW FOR 2024.  Rundowns are now permitted, and a runner may change direction on the base path multiple times. 
  • Teams must have at least one player of each sex on the field at all times and at least one player of each sex in the batting lineup.
  • A player may hit no more than one home run over the fence per game. If a player hits another home run over the fence in the game the hit will be ruled a single.
  • The infield fly rule” does not apply.
  • No outfielder or outfield rover can throw to first base to make an out.
  • Teams pitch to their own players allowing for a maximum of 4 pitches.  Foul balls are included in the 4-pitch maximum and the batter cannot bunt. If a batted ball hits the pitching screen, it will be declared a dead ball and not count as one of the 4 allowable pitches.
  • Baserunners cannot overrun the bases except for first base.
  • Runners to first base must touch the orange part of the bag or be called out but may touch the white portion if there is no play at first and the runner heads to second base.
  • A runner cannot touch home plate but instead must cross the safe line. The runner will be called out if home plate is touched.
  • There is a commitment line for players running from third base to home. Once the commitment line is crossed, a runner may not return to third base.
  • No player shall sit out twice before all other players have sat out once.