Curl BC Competition Rules and Guides
- Curl BC Competition Guide 2026-27 – September 29, 2026
- 2027 Competition Agreement – to be completed once per season
- Category Specific Eligibility
- Qualification Process For Men’s and Women’s
- Club Championship Rules
- BC Specific Eligibility Rule – Each team may have one player that qualified for the provincial playoffs in U20s, Men’s, Women’s or Seniors in any of the previous three (3) seasons.
- A league is 4 or more weeks of scheduled games.
- Playing regularly in a league means to play 4 or more games within the season.
- Adding a:
- Coach – per category
- Coach Information and Acknowledgement Form – to be completed once per season
- Fifth Player – per category when allowed
- Spare – Mixed Championship Spare Pool
- Coach – per category
- Coach Interactions
- Last Stone Draw
- No Tick Zone Rule
Rules of Curling
- Curling Canada Rules of Curling
- Stick Curling Rules – September 2026
Equipment Guidelines
Visit World Curling for information on approved competition equipment.
You can submit suggested rule changes to Curl BC’s Competition Committee by completing this form.
Curl BC recognizes the importance of team sponsorship. However, we also need to honour the importance of our own sponsors. Sponsorship not in conflict will be permitted unless otherwise noted.
If teams have conflicting sponsors or are unsure whether your sponsorship is permitted, contact the Curl BC Office for further clarification.
Curl BC Sponsors:
- Best Western – hotels
- Belairdirect – home and travel insurance
- AMJ Campbell – moving and storage
- Driftwood Brewery – breweries
- Magnum – liqueur
Uniform Standards
These uniform standards apply to all players, coaches and fifth players while accessing the field of play and during ceremonies:
- Visible advertising on team apparel will be permitted if there is no conflict with Provincial sponsors. Curl BC retains the right of refusal.
- One or more team members can wear headgear. Any headgear worn must be the same for every player and should be a continuation of the uniform design or neutral. Headgear worn for safety, religious or cultural reasons (such as hijabs, turbans, or yarmulkes) are permitted, and are excluded from the uniform colour/design regulations.
- Players are required to wear matching jackets, vests, sweaters or hoodies.
- Coaches and Fifth players may either match the players or wear plain black.
- Exception: U15, BC Winter Games Zone Qualifier, Open Qualifier
- Shirts must be of matching “like” colour(s) if worn without a jacket.
- Players are required to wear pants of matching colour; no jeans are allowed.
- Coaches and Fifth players may either match the players or wear plain black.
- Exception: U15, BC Winter Games Zone Qualifiers, BC Winter Games, Open Qualifiers
- Non-compliance will result in the individual or team not being able to access the field of play for the event until they comply.
Cresting
BC Women’s Curling Championship – each team member (coaches are excluded) is required to wear a Best Western crest on their uniform. Crests must be in the same position for all members of the team.
Teams wishing to sublimate the crest onto their team uniforms may contact Curl BC for the appropriate file at any point
Helmet Policy
For all of its programs and events, Curl BC mandates the use of well-fitting, properly worn helmets, CSA or designed specifically for the sport of curling for individuals under the age of 12.
Fines for Violations
- Dress code violations, including the use of prohibited branding on clothing or equipment, are not allowed. Fines with regard to dress code violations are as follows.
- 1st Offence: Fine from $150-$500
- 2nd Offence: Fine from $500-$1,000
- 3rd Offence: Fine up to $1,000 and suspension.
Uniform checks may be done prior to pre-event practice and teams may be given an opportunity to change before fines are issued.
Introduction
Curl BC and our member centre event host committees are actively engaged in social media (i.e. TikTok, Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, blog sites) to extend the reach and messages of our organizations and engage with key audiences in a meaningful way. Staff, volunteers, athletes, coaches and officials are the best ambassadors and promoters of curling and are encouraged to take part and share their experiences through social media.
Guidelines
Only designated individuals will be given the authority to communicate through social media on behalf of Curl BC. These guidelines provide direction for volunteers, participants, and supporters who choose to identify their relationship with Curl BC through personal social media accounts at Curl BC events or in the lead-up to Curl BC events.
- Be authentic and transparent. Write in the first person and be clear that you are speaking for yourself and not on behalf of Curl BC.
- Exercise good judgment. Everything online is visible to the entire world and is discoverable. Respect the privacy and opinions of others, and don’t reveal confidential information.
- Links to the Curl BC website curlbc.ca, our event websites, our member centres’ websites or other scoring sites are encouraged.
- Add value and insight for the people who will read your posts. Social media is about building relationships, and providing worthwhile information and perspective.
- During championship events, competitors should be conscious of sponsors. Curl BC’s partnerships with companies such as belairdirect and Best Western help our events run successfully, as well as provide money that covers the cost of banquets and training for officials. Curl BC would ask competitors to respect those partnerships by not: A) distributing messages that may be seen as critical of the sponsors; and B) distributing messages praising direct competitors of our sponsors. This applies specifically during championship events.
- Be responsible. Staff, volunteers, and participants are representatives of their community, sport, and member centre and are responsible for the content they publish and how they participate in social media.
- Competitors hurt the sport and hurt their teammates by sending out negative messages of their own, or by sharing/retweeting negative messages from other people. These can consist of criticism of opponents, teammates, officials, broadcasters, events, sponsors, facilities and playing conditions, or sexist, racist or homophobic slurs.
- During championship events, out of respect for the integrity of the game, players, coaches and alternates on the field of play will be prohibited from using any form of social media from 15 minutes prior to games until the completion of the game. However, teams can appoint someone sitting in the stands or watching on television to send messages via social media as long as there is no direct contact with the players, coach or alternate in the field of play.
Enforcement
Publishing inappropriate content related to Curl BC or one of its events, or any content that could be construed as bringing Curl BC or the event into disrepute, may lead to disciplinary procedures. For more information on Curl BC Policy, see the Curl BC Board Policy Registry.
Reporting
Participants who believe that social media use by another participant or volunteer is inappropriate or may violate Curl BC’s rules or policies should report the matter to Curl BC (604-333-3621, sbraley@curlbc.ca).
In cooperation and with the support of the World Curling Players Association, Curling Canada and Curl BC have introduced a fine system that consists of fines for the following:
1.On-ice conduct, including:
- Use of inappropriate language to the point that it is offensive.
- Making an obscene gesture that is deemed inappropriate by the Chief Umpire.
- Being abusive to anyone involved with the event.
- Refusing to talk to an accredited member of the media.
- Refusing to wear an RF microphone. (Broadcast games only)
- Refusing to cooperate with the televising network. (Broadcast games only)
- Dress code violation (including the use of unapproved logos or sponsorship on clothing or equipment)
- 1st Offence: Fine from $150 – $500
- 2nd Offence: Fine from $500 – $1000
- 3rd Offence: Fine up to $1000 and suspension
2.Refusing to take a directive given by a Curl BC Official
- 1st Offence: Fine from $300 – $600
- 2nd Offence: Fine from $600 – $1000
- 3rd Offence: Fine up to $1000 and suspension
3.Conceding a game before the time frame designated by Curl BC without permission.
- 1st Offence: Fine from $500 – $1000 for each member of the team on the ice
4. Off-ice activity: Any conduct considered to be inappropriate by Curl BC.
- 1st Offence: Fine from $300 – $600
- 2nd Offence: Fine from $600 – $1000
- A suspension may also be levied in association with these fines.
Dress code violations, including the use of prohibited branding on clothing or equipment, are not allowed. Fines with regard to dress code violations are as follows. See https://www.curlbc.ca/resources/rules/ for uniform rules:
- 1st Offence: Fine from $150-$500
- 2nd Offence: Fine from $500-$1,000
- 3rd Offence: Fine up to $1,000 and suspension
Uniform checks may be done prior to pre-event practice and teams may be given an opportunity to change before fines are issued.
The fine system is detailed on the Curl BC website in our rules section under “player fines for violations”. https://www.curlbc.ca/resources/rules/ Applicable for all Curl BC Championship events.
For all Curl BC-owned or managed events from which athletes are eligible to receive funds, fines shall be collected from the amount of money owed the team at the conclusion of the event. For other Curl BC events, any fines levied shall be collected prior to the athlete’s participation in another Curl BC event.
All funds collected through fines shall be contributed to the Curling For Life Endowment Fund (https://www.curlbc.ca/fund/).
Appeals
- See Curl BC’s appeal policy; https://www.curlbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Curl-BC-Board-Policies-2023-June_2-1.pdf
- Any questions can be sent to:
Scott Braley
Curl BC
2001A – 3713 Kensington Ave
Burnaby, BC, V5B 0A7
or email: sbraley@curlbc.ca
- The appeal must include full details of the identified infraction.
Curler’s Code of Ethics
- I will play the game with a spirit of good sportsmanship.
- I will conduct myself in an honourable manner both on and off the ice.
- I will never knowingly break a rule, but if I do, I will divulge the breach.
- I will take no action that could be interpreted as an attempt to intimidate or demean my opponents, teammates, or umpires.
- I will interpret the rules in an impartial manner, always keeping in mind that the purpose of the rules is to ensure that the game is played in an orderly and fair manner.
- I will humbly accept any penalty that the governing body at any level of curling deems appropriate if I am found in violation of the Code of Ethics or rules of the game.
Coaching Code of Ethics
- The coach shall act with integrity in performing all duties owed to athletes, the sport, other members of the coaching profession and the public.
- The coach shall strive to be well prepared and current in order that all duties in their discipline are fulfilled with competence.
- The coach shall act in the best interest of the athlete’s development as a whole person.
- The coach shall accept both the letter and the spirit of the rules that define and govern the sport.
- The coach shall accept the role of umpires in providing judgment to ensure that competitions are conducted fairly and in accordance with the established rules.
- The coach’s conduct toward other coaches shall be characterized by courtesy, good faith, and respect.
- The coach shall maintain the highest standards of personal conduct and support the principles of Fair Play.
Fair Play
- Fair Play begins with the strict observance of the written rule; however, in most cases, Fair Play involves something more than even unfailing observance of the
written rule. The observance of the spirit of the rules, whether written or unwritten, is important. - Fair Play results from measuring up to one’s own moral standards while engaged in competition.
- Fair Play is consistent demonstration of respect for teammates and opponents, whether they are winning or losing.
- Fair Play is consistent demonstration of respect for umpires, an acceptance of their decisions and a steadfast spirit of collaboration with them.
- Sportsmanlike behaviour should be demonstrated both on and off the ice. This
includes modesty in victory and composure in defeat.
Fair Play Code for Umpires
- The umpire shall strive to ensure that every athlete has the opportunity to perform to the best of their ability.
- The umpire shall strive to maintain a positive atmosphere and safe environment for competition.
- The umpire shall not permit the intimidation of any athlete either by word or by action.
- The umpire shall not tolerate unacceptable conduct toward themselves, other umpires, athletes, or spectators.
- The umpire shall handle all conflicts firmly and with dignity.
- The umpire shall accept their role as a teacher and role model for Fair Play.
- The umpire shall be open to discussion and contact with the athletes as required.
- The umpire shall remain open to constructive criticism and show respect and consideration for different points of view.
- The umpire shall continue to obtain proper training and upgrade their officiating
skills.
Background
With the “spirit of curling” at the heart of this policy, Curl BC is implementing a Disciplinary Carding System for Misconduct during its events. This system empowers officials to enforce competition rules and to deter misconduct during Curl BC’s events both on and off the ice.
The policy is not intended to affect the outcome of a game but will remind participants of the expected behaviour and provide ample opportunity to correct said behaviour before it may potentially escalate to a violation of the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS).
The Disciplinary Carding system will serve as an additional educational tool, especially for young athletes, and take steps to establish a culture of safety and integrity for all – including event staff and officials.
The Disciplinary Carding System does not replace the Curl BC Policy Registry Safe-5: Complaints and Discipline, nor does it replace the Curl BC Fine system.
Scope
The system applies to all athletes and coaches (herby referred to as “participants”) registered to a Curl BC competition.
Duration
The system applies to registered participants from the moment they depart their home for travel to the competition until 24 hours after the close of the competition.
Responsibilities
The following individuals have the responsibility (when applicable) of issuing Disciplinary Cards
for misconduct associated with a Curling Canada event.
Chief Umpire
The Chief Umpire will issue a disciplinary card(s) based on reports of misconduct from accredited Game Umpires or Curl BC staff/contractors when on the field of play.
The Chief Umpire will issue the written warning at the completion of an end, and as close to the infraction time as possible.
The Chief Umpire can issue yellow or red cards without consultation of the governing body.
The Chief Umpire in conjunction with the Event Manager, must escalate a black card misconduct issue to the Chief Executive Officer.
The Event Manager
The Event Manager will issue a disciplinary card(s) (yellow or red cards) applying to misconduct which has been verified during “sanctioned” off-ice events, at event related venues (ex. Host hotels), or between event participants.
The Event Manager will assemble a three-person panel of event related staff/contractors (can be remote) to determine the validity of the misconduct. The panel will document their findings.
The Event Manager will issue the written warning to the participant before their next scheduled game in the event.
The Event Manager must escalate a black card misconduct issues to the Chief Executive Officer.
Chief Executive Officer (or designate)
The Chief Executive Officer is the only person who can issue a black card for misconduct issue warranting immediate and permanent expulsion from an event.
The Chief Executive Officer will designate a “back-up” decision maker to make that decision in the event of their unavailability. Default: Executive Director of High-Performance.
Disciplinary Carding
There will be three colours of cards which are assigned different levels of disciple based on the severity of the misconduct.
Yellow Card – issued to a participant for minor level misconduct (on or off-ice).
Red Card – issued to a participant for a moderate level conduct infraction (on or off-ice).
Black Card – issued to a participant for a major level misconduct (on or off-ice).
Yellow Cards are “cumulative” – upon a participant receiving a third yellow card in the same event – the participant will be removed from the game they’re playing or coaching (if applicable) and sit out one more game (if there are future games in the event).
Red Cards are “immediate” – upon a participant receiving a red card in an event, they will be immediately removed from the game they’re playing (if applicable) and sit out one more game (in the same event or a future Curl BC event).
Black Cards are “immediate” – upon a participant receiving a black card in an event, they will immediately and permanently be removed from the event and escorted out of the venue.
EXAMPLES OF YELLOW CARD (MINOR) MISCONDUCT:
ON ICE
- Multiple or “aggressive” broom slam(s) anywhere in the field of play in response to a missed shot.
- Moving stones aggressively into the corners during or after an end is complete. This could include:
- Stones turning over because of the action
- Stone(s) going onto the sideboards or back boards because of the action.
- Stone(s) “scattering” because of the force of the stone being moved into the corner.
- Throwing/kicking of any object, broom, water bottle, garbage can, etc. in an aggressive manner.
- Inappropriate cheering of opposition’s missed shots.
- Overt “showboating” actions that could be a distraction to the opposition or is not in the spirit of the game.
- Swearing loud enough that it is heard by any of the umpiring crew, or if they are on the televised / streamed sheet, it is picked up by their microphone.
OFF ICE
- Breaking event curfew at a youth event (if applicable).
- Display of “inappropriate” signage or clothing.
EXAMPLES OF RED CARD (MODERATE) MISCONDUCT:
ON ICE
- Harassment, verbal abuse of any event participant (including fans).
- Breaking equipment (broom or delivery device) because of an aggressive action.
- Acts of aggression resulting in damage to ice or stones or delay of game.
- Making an obscene gesture that is deemed inappropriate by an Official.
- Refusing to talk to an accredited member of the media.
- Refusing to wear a RF microphone.
- Refusing to cooperate with an accredited member of the media.
- Dress code violation (offensive, unapproved cresting on clothing or equipment).
- Refusing to take a directive given by a Curl BC Official.
- Conceding a game before the time frame designated by Curl BC without permission.
- Attempting to influence the game conditions or environment.
OFF ICE
- Harassment, verbal abuse of any event participant (including fans).
- Inappropriate language or behaviour during fan events (i.e. interviews)
- Drunken/disorderly behaviour (adults) at an event function.
- Attempting to influence the game conditions or environment.
- Member of off-ice support team or parents “signaling” to athletes.
EXAMPLES OF BLACK CARD (MAJOR) MISCONDUCT:
ON ICE
- UCCMS Violation – physical or sexual assault on another participant.
- UCCMS Violation – verbal assault or harassment of another participant where they feel unsafe.
- Issuance of a third red card within the same event for the same participant.
- Suspicion of competition manipulation.
OFF ICE
- UCCMS Violation – physical or sexual assault on another participant.
- UCCMS Violation – verbal assault or harassment of another participant where they feel unsafe.
- Issuance of a third red card within the same event for the same participant.
- Suspicion of competition manipulation.
- Acts of aggression resulting in damage to event related venues.
- Coach or Athlete of “dry” youth events – consume alcohol or recreational drugs during “event window.”
Team “Offense”
- Where an individual participant cannot be named for misconduct, but certainty exists around a Team’s misconduct – a red or yellow card (as determined by the severity of the incident) will be assessed against the skip or fourth rock thrower.
- A black card misconduct can result in the team’s elimination from the event.
Coaching
- If a Coach for a youth event is issued a card(s) warranting suspension from a game(s), the team will NOT have the coach replaced and will need to compete without the benefit of a coach on the bench. A parent will be permitted to assume responsibility for the team off ice but will not have access to the bench or team during the game or practice time before it.
- If a Coach for an adult event is issued a card(s) warranting suspension from a game(s), the team will NOT have the coach replaced and will need to compete without the benefit of a coach on the bench.
Curling Canada Team Travel & Funding Policies (Effective July 31, 2026)
| Men’s & Women’s | |
| Medals | 1 per player and coach (if on roster) |
| Prize Money | $1000 total divided by number of eligible players |
| Championship Banner | 1 per team provided to team’s home club |
| Framed Heart | 1 per player |
| U18, U20, Wheelchair, Seniors, Masters, Club, Mixed | |
| Medals | 1 per player and coach (if on roster) |
| Prize Money | $1000 total divided by number of eligible players |
| Championship Banner | 1 per team provided to team’s home club |
| Framed Heart | 1 per player and coach* (*U18 and U20 only) |
| BC Uniform | 1 jacket and 2 shirts per player, 1 jacket and 1 shirt per coach |
| Mixed Doubles | |
| Medals | 1 per player and coach (if on roster) |
| Prize Money | $1000 total divided by 2 players |
| Championship Banner | 1 per team provided to team’s home club |
| Framed Heart | 1 per player |
| BC Uniform | 1 jacket and 2 shirts per player, 1 jacket and 1 shirt per coach |
| Stick | |
| Medals | 1 per player and coach (if on roster) |
| Prize Money | $500 total divided by 2 players |
| Championship Banner | 1 per team provided to team’s home club |
| BC Uniform | 1 jacket and 2 shirts per player |
