Rules of the sand.

A team may use up to 3 contacts before returning the ball. The same player may not make two consecutive contacts, except that a player who blocks may make the next contact.

The ball may contact any part of the body. A clear catch, carry, or throw is a fault. Sandline does not call every imperfect hand contact; if the ball rebounds in one playing motion, keep playing. A competitive event may announce a stricter handling standard before play.

Before the first game or match, the teams play one unscored volley for serve. Start with a playable neutral ball over the net. The team that wins the rally earns the first serve. In a best-of-three match, first serve alternates in each later set.

The server must be behind the end line when contacting the ball. A serve that touches the net and crosses between the antennas remains live. Teams maintain a serving order, and the next player in that order serves whenever the team wins the serve back.

A serve may be passed or set, but it may not be blocked or attacked directly back from above the net.

A ball touching any part of a boundary line is in. A ball touching an antenna, crossing outside an antenna, or landing completely outside the lines is out.

Players may cross under the net only when they do not interfere with an opponent. Contact that creates a collision risk, prevents an opponent from making a play, or affects the rally is a fault. Grabbing, pulling, or using the net for support is also a fault.

A blocker may reach across the net only after the opponent attacks the ball. Reaching across early and interfering with the opponent's play is a fault.

Sandline games are self-officiated unless an organizer assigns an official. Call your own net touches, ball touches, and line faults. If the teams cannot quickly agree on a judgment call, replay the point. In organized play, the event organizer has the final say on rules, scoring, eligibility, and conduct.

Stop play immediately for an injury or unsafe court condition. Give players room to land, do not intentionally play through another person's space, and report hazards in or around the court.

If thunder is heard or lightning is seen, play stops and everyone moves to a substantial building or hard-topped vehicle. Play may resume no sooner than 30 minutes after the last thunder or lightning.

Official updates appear in the Sandline app and may also be shared through GroupMe, email, text, or Instagram. The event status in Sandline is the final source.

Sandline events are for players age 18 and older. Participants must complete the current account, registration, and waiver steps required for an organized event before playing.