Walking Football – Laws of the Game

Walking football is a slower-paced form of football with rules designed to support safe, enjoyable play. This page brings together the FA Laws of the Game, Seasiders’ local rules and updates on national laws.

Which walking football rules apply?

FA and WFA rules have been used by different leagues and competitions. Check the rules adopted by your organiser, including any competition-specific variations. Seasiders’ recreational sessions use our separate local rules.

Walking football rules at a glance

This brief overview follows the FA’s February 2025 Laws of the Game. Read the full document for exceptions, restarts and disciplinary procedures.

• Walking, not running: players must keep at least one foot in contact with the ground, with an exception for a goalkeeper making a save.
• Non-contact play: avoid physical contact; careless, reckless or excessively forceful challenges are penalised. Sliding tackles and heading are not allowed.
• Ball height: a designated height restriction applies. Check the limit used by your competition.
• No offside: walking football has no offside rule.

Unified laws planned from 2027

The FA and WFA announced a new partnership on 12 August 2026, with unified Laws of the Game to be established and implemented from 2027 onwards. This is a planned change, not a replacement for the rules currently used at your session or competition.

Read our FA and WFA partnership update and the official FA announcement.