REGISTRATION
OFFICIATING INFORMATION
Hockey Canada Playing Rule Changes for the 2026-27 Season
As players and coaches return to the rink, Officials are preparing for the latest Hockey Canada rule changes and areas of emphasis. The goal is simple: consistent officiating that supports a safe, fair and positive game. What’s Changed? Key updates include: •Player-safety rules •Penalty procedures •Officiating mechanics •Clarifications to promote consistency across the country Players and coaches should know what Officials are looking for. Understanding the changes can help teams adapt, avoid unnecessary penalties and stay focused on the game.
Rule 6.18 – Goaltender Safety U13 and Below Only In U13 hockey and below, if a goaltender is struck in the head by the puck, the referee must stop play as soon as it is safe to do so. However, officials should allow a moment to determine whether the puck enters the goal directly. If the puck enters the goal directly after striking the goaltender’s mask or helmet—including after contacting a goal post or the crossbar—the goal is allowed, provided no player from either team touches the puck. Once another player contacts the puck, play must be stopped immediately. This new procedure balances the possibility of a legitimate goal being scored with the need to provide young goaltenders with prompt assessment following potential head contact.
Rule 6.9 - High-Sticking the Puck The rule itself hasn't changed, however, the standards for judging goals have been clarified: •Shoulder height determines illegal contact during the play •Crossbar height determines whether a goal is legal
Rule 10.8 - Refusing to Start Play The procedure for refusing to start play has also changed. The previous two-minute warning has been removed. Officials now follow a clear progression: A bench minor, or a penalty shot in the final two minutes or anytime in overtime. Teams would then have an opportunity to comply. If they don't, a game misconduct is issued to the head coach and the game is forfeited.
Rule 4.2 b) - Minor Penalties This Rule looks at an important change to Rule 4.2(b) and how officials determine whether a Minor or Bench Minor penalty terminates after a goal is scored. Beginning with the 2026-27 season, officials must consider not only penalties currently being served, but also delayed time penalties that have already been signalled. Through three examples, we break down what has changed, what remains the same, and the two questions officials should ask following a goal.
Rule 6.1 g) - Change of Players U18 AAA Only When the net has been accidentally dislodged by any defending player, including the goaltender, this will result in a no change situation.
Officials Signals Several officiating terms and signals have been added or updated this season: •For all levels of hockey, when a linesperson blows a whistle for icing, they will put their arm up to signal it. •The signal for slewfooting has also changed. Instead of a forward to backward motion, officials will now signal from backwards to forwards. The tripping and clipping signal, though remain unchanged.
Rule of the Week
Rule of the Week: Hockey Canada Rule Changes for 2026-2028 (S6E1)
Rule of the Week: Goaltender Safety - NEW RULE FOR 2026-2028 (S6E3)
Rule of the Week | Rule 4.2(b) – Minor Penalty Termination After a Goal (S6E2)
Rule of the Week: Proper Helmet Fit – 2026–27 Point of Emphasis (S6E4)
OFFICIAL OF THE MONTH
