What authority and duties does the Referee have?

The Referee takes primary charge of the game and guides and directs the other officials. The Referee applies the rules, assesses penalties and rules on disputes or situations not covered by the rules. The Referee's decision on any situation in the game is final, and the Referee may overrule any other official.

Other duties in the rule book:

• Remove any sideline official if necessary and require an immediate replacement.
• Test the game balls 30 minutes before the game; the Referee's decision on their suitability is final.
• Report irregularities in field markings or ground rules to the captains before the game and review them with the other officials.
• Keep the count of downs, subject to a check with the Down Judge.
• Take position behind Team A, and be responsible for determining whether the ball is put into play legally and for covering the passer and kicker and their opponents.
• Mark the out-of-bounds spot when a ball goes out of bounds in flight, and rule on lateral passes behind the line of scrimmage and the position of onside players on an onside kick.
• Indicate the end of each period by whistle and by signalling the timer, and have the captains warned when 3 minutes remain in the half-time interval.

All field officials are equally responsible for the orderly conduct of the game and the enforcement of the rules, and no agreement may prevent the calling of any foul by any official against either team.

Source: Canadian Amateur Rule Book for Tackle Football 2026-2027, Rule 2, Sections 2 and 3.