Section 3: Playing Area
Field Layout
The playing field is a large open area divided into two equal halves by a clearly marked center line (the "boundary line" or "midfield line"). Each half is one team's territory. The recommended minimum field size is approximately 30 m x 60 m (100 ft x 200 ft), though this can be adjusted based on the number of players and available space.
Territory Zones
- Team Territory: Each team's half of the field. Players are safe from being tagged while in their own territory.
- Flag Station: A designated area at the far end or center-rear of each team's territory where the flag is placed. The flag station should be clearly marked and accessible from multiple directions.
- Jail Zone: A designated area within each team's territory where tagged opponents are held. The jail should be clearly marked and positioned away from the flag station, typically near the boundary line or in a visible location.
- Safe Zone (optional): A narrow strip along the boundary line where players from either team cannot be tagged. This variant is sometimes used to encourage crossing.
Field Requirements
- The playing surface should be relatively flat and free of major obstacles or hazards.
- Outdoor grass fields, parks, and open spaces are ideal.
- Indoor gymnasiums or large halls can be used with adjusted boundaries.
- Natural features such as trees, hills, and bushes add strategic depth but should not pose safety risks.
- All outer boundaries must be clearly defined so players know the limits of the playing area.
Flag Placement Rules
- Each team places their flag within their own territory before the game begins.
- The flag must be visible — it cannot be hidden inside a container, buried, or tied to a player's body.
- The flag must be placed on the ground or mounted on a post or cone at waist height or below.
- The flag may be placed anywhere within the team's territory but is typically at the far end, away from the center line.
- A "no-guard zone" circle with a radius of approximately 3 m (10 ft) around the flag may be enforced, meaning defenders cannot stand within this zone unless an attacker is also inside it.