Cornhole Game Rules You Didn’t Know Exist

Rules are important in any game – and cornhole is no exception. Most people are unaware of the cornhole game rules because the sport seems so simple. While cornhole is a simple game, its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of environments – some of which call for a more streamlined playing process. Even the most novice cornhole player is aware of the simple regulations regarding scoring and game play. But that is just the tip of the iceberg!

Before you host or take part in a serious cornhole competition, let’s review the official cornhole game rules. If you need a refresher on the basics first, start with our official cornhole rules and our guide to keeping score.

Equipment Rules

There are many rules that pertain to the equipment. For example, the cornhole board measurements are quite specific – regulation boards are 24” x 48” with a 6” hole centered 9” from the top, set 27 feet apart. However, there are also several lesser known rules governing the cornhole game boards and bags:

• A contestant is unable to alter the cornhole court in any way – no matter how small – without consent from the opposing team and tournament officials.
• Cornhole tournaments are to be played using wooden cornhole game boards due to the variances with plastic and other surfaces. Additionally, the cornhole board game surface must be smooth and free of any blemishes.
• Cornhole bags will be different colors (each team will have their own distinguishing color). These colors must be easy to see. Additionally, there are more rules regarding the cornhole bag size and weight.

Fortunately, all of our cornhole boards and cornhole bags adhere to tournament regulations. Using our official products ensures you don’t have to worry about the rules governing their construction.

Pitching Rules

In a cornhole tournament, there are specific rules in place that regulate how each bag is pitched, who pitches, and from what distance.

• Contestants can pitch from the left or right pitcher’s box. However, this cannot change in a single inning.
• Each contestant is required to pitch with the same pitching hand throughout the duration of the cornhole board game tournament, barring a medical emergency.
• Once a contestant enters the pitching box, he or she has 20 seconds to pitch the bag. Time begins upon entering the pitching box.
• Each inning, the contestant who scored in the previous inning pitches first. If no score has been made, the last pitcher in the previous inning pitches first.
• Any opponent not pitching is required to stand behind the cornhole board game platform and at least 2 feet behind the contestant pitching.

Foul Rules

While the location and distance of foul lines vary between adult and junior tournament play, other additional foul rules apply. In general, any bag found non-compliant with other game rules is called a foul bag.

In the following instances, these bags are required to be taken out of the playing field before the game can be resumed. Note: all instances are officially determined by the tournament judge.

• Any cornhole bag pitched once contact has been made with the foul line.
• Any cornhole bag pitched when the contestant steps or releases it outside the pitcher’s box.
• Any cornhole bag that is not pitched or delivered prior to the 20 second time limit expiration.
• Any cornhole bag a contestant pitches from a different pitcher’s box in a single inning.
• Any cornhole bag that hits another object or the ground prior to landing on the cornhole board platform.
• Any cornhole bag that has been taken off the board before a score has been officially determined.

Game Play Rules

As with other games, there are specific rules regulating cornhole tournament game play – including inning count, scoring, and special circumstances.

• The player or team that first reaches or exceeds 21 points wins. However, since cornhole matches cannot end before finishing the current inning, the opposing team is allowed to complete all pitches and finish out the inning before the game is completed.
• If a team scores 7 points or more at the end of an inning prior to their opponent scoring, the game is determined a skunk and the scoring team wins the match.
• Personal belongings must be stored behind the cornhole platform – including drinks – in order to avoid distractions.

Ultimately, there are many complex rules that govern cornhole tournament play. These cornhole game rules are not designed to take away from the fun, but allow for increased fairness and ease of play.