Section 7: Violations & Penalties
7.1 Time Violations
- Exceeding run time: The run terminates when the 45-second buzzer sounds. Only tricks initiated before the buzzer are scored.
- Failure to start: If an athlete does not begin their run within the allotted start window (typically 30 seconds after being called), the attempt is forfeited and scored as 0.0.
7.2 Equipment Violations
- Equipment failure during a run: No restart is granted. The score is based on what was completed before the failure. Athletes may switch to a backup board between attempts.
- Missing mandatory protective equipment (Park): Athlete is not permitted to start. Must obtain compliant equipment before the next attempt.
- Unauthorized board modifications: Boards found to contain motorized, mechanical, or electronic performance aids result in disqualification.
7.3 Conduct Violations
- False start: Starting before the official signal requires the athlete to return to the starting position and restart. Repeated false starts may result in a time penalty or forfeiture of the attempt.
- Unauthorized course modifications: Applying wax, moving obstacles, or altering the course surface without authorization results in a warning for the first offense and disqualification for repeated offenses.
- Unsportsmanlike conduct: Verbal abuse, throwing equipment, intimidation of judges or other athletes, or deliberate obstruction results in a yellow card (warning), red card (score nullification for the current attempt), or disqualification.
- Substance violations: WADA anti-doping rules apply at Olympic and World Championship events. Positive tests result in disqualification and potential suspension.
7.4 Protests and Appeals
- Protests must be filed in writing within 15 minutes of the score being posted
- A protest fee (refundable if the protest is upheld) is required
- The Head Judge reviews video evidence and consults with the panel
- The Technical Delegate makes the final ruling on appeals