What is lane courtesy, and what etiquette does USBC expect?
Guideline- USA
- USBC
- Tenpin bowling
- Adult league
- Recreational league
- USBC Playing Rules
- 2026-27 rules
- Players
USBC's etiquette guidelines:
- One-lane courtesy: if you and the bowler on the next lane reach the approach at the same time, the bowler on the right goes first. Stay off the approach while you wait.
- Be ready when the pins are set, but wait until the pinsetter finishes its cycle and the sweep bar is up before you throw.
- Don't take too long aiming or setting up on the approach.
- Stay in your own approach area while delivering, and step off once you've thrown.
- Keep movement and noise down when others are about to bowl.
- Avoid excessive lofting; it damages the lane.
- Ask before using another bowler's ball.
- No abusive language or obscene gestures, and be a gracious loser.
- Wet shoes are a safety hazard, so watch where you walk.
Separately, USBC rules prohibit putting any foreign substance on the approach or using shoe products or soles that leave residue on it.
Added 21 Oct 2026