The following rules have had modifications made for the 2020-21 season. We have indicated what has changed in each rule and where practical, we have stated the new rule in its entirety. (continued on back)
RULE CHANGES Rule 400 – Youth Membership Eligibility
Reduces the age limit for youth membership to 18 from 20.
New Rule
USBC Youth membership is available to an individual who has not reached their 18th birthday prior to August 1 of the current bowling season. Individuals who purchase Youth membership in a summer league and turn 18 prior to August 1 will be allowed to complete the summer league.
Rule 13 – Parental Consent Form
The USBC Singles Competition Prize Waiver Form and the Parental Consent Form have been replaced with a new document titled Consent Form.
Rule 14 – Supplemental Fees
Rule was deleted.
New Rule 14 – Emergency Authorization
Allows USBC to temporary modify the General Playing, Award, League and Tournament Rules under specific circumstances. Information regarding any active authorizations will be posted on BOWL.com.
New Rule
Equipment Specifications – Bowling Balls
- No balance holes will be permitted.
- All holes drilled must be used for gripping purposes on every delivery.
- No more than three (3) ounces of weight on any halves of the ball.
In accordance with the authority granted through Rule 14, the following rules have been designated for temporary exceptions to be effective until further notice:
Rule 18
USBC will temporarily allow the use of isopropyl alcohol, aka rubbing alcohol on the outer surface of the ball at any time during USBC certified competition.
Rules 106a and 106b
USBC will temporarily allow individual teams to compete on a single lane without the requirement to rotate lanes after each frame.
Rules 320a and 320b
USBC will temporarily allow individual teams to compete on a single lane without the requirement to rotate lanes after each frame.
USBC High Score Awards and Average Recognition USBC will temporarily extend recognition of scores bowled on a single lane for USBC High Score Awards and for inclusion in the individuals official average records.