Who decides whether the pitch is playable?

Under The FA's Standard Code of Rules for youth competitions, the appointed referee decides whether the ground is fit for a league match, and that decision is final. The only exception is when the local authority or the ground's owners have decided the pitch can't be used: their decision must be accepted.

Related points:

• Complaints about the size of the pitch, goals or flag posts are only considered if a protest is lodged with the referee before kick-off.
• Overhead netting is allowed for 3v3, 5v5 and 7v7 only if it is at least 6 m high, and is not allowed for 9v9 and 11v11.
• If overhead wires for divider netting can't be removed, you have discretion to restart play in line with the Laws of the Game when the ball hits them.
• Referees must start matches at the appointed time and report all late starts to the league.