Bunker Contact, Stability & Manipulation Rules

Overview

Regulations defining allowable and prohibited interactions with bunkers, including stability requirements, physical contact limitations, and manipulation penalties.

Key Points

• Incidental contact with bunkers is expected during normal play
• Intentional manipulation is prohibited in regulated formats
• Players may not lift, shift, collapse, or reposition bunkers
• Unstable or unsafe bunkers must be corrected before play resumes

Details

Bunker interaction rules define what types of contact are allowed and what constitutes illegal manipulation. Because bunkers significantly influence sightlines, angles, and safety, consistent enforcement is necessary to prevent competitive distortion.

Incidental contact, such as sliding into a bunker or leaning against it during movement, is considered normal and permitted. However, intentional acts like lifting bunkers, collapsing them, or pushing them to alter cover are violations.

If a bunker becomes unstable due to impact, the match may be temporarily paused. Officials ensure the bunker is corrected before play resumes, especially if its movement creates unsafe conditions or changes game balance.

Manipulation penalties vary by format but often include minor penalties for slight intentional adjustments and major penalties for actions affecting competitive fairness or creating unsafe conditions.

Related Topics

• Field Layout & Bunker Interaction Rules
• Rules, Safety & Player Conduct
• Refereeing & Officiating Standards
• Penalties & Infractions in 1v1 Paintball