Bar Patron Rules for a Pool Table

Whether you play on the same table every day or will be playing in a location you have never been before, certain rules should be followed when you play pool. Usually referred to as table etiquette, these rules are intended to protect the equipment and to ensure everyone is having a good time. Most are common courtesy, but be aware of any specific house rules as well.

Respect the Table

A pool table is an investment and should be treated with respect.

Unless an ashtray or drink holder is built into the body of the table, a billiards table is not meant to serve as such. Some locations do not allow smoking in the billiards area at all, while others provide ashtrays to give you a place to put your butts. Unless it is approved by the house, do not make jump shots on the table because of the possibility of tearing the table or stretching the fabric. Pool tables are expensive and should be taken care of by any person using them.

Common Etiquette

Do not make loud noises or try to distract the player.

Be polite to the other patrons in the bar. Nobody is hoping to spend the evening playing a game with someone who is being obnoxious or overbearing. If you wish to dispute a shot, do so in a calm and rational voice. Accusations and a raised voice are not the going to win you any friends or make the other players more likely to give your objection any consideration. Playing billiards is a social function for many people, and they expect the same courtesies as in other social settings, such as a dance hall.

Share the Table

If you want to play teams, get the other players' agreement.

Place your quarters on the table and wait your turn, but keep an eye on the games so you know when your time has come. If you are with a group of friends, and the establishment only has one or two tables, offer to share it with other patrons. Before you place your quarters, make sure the table is open for public play. Some establishments reserve tables for tournaments or league play and an apparently empty table may not be available for use.

Obey the House Rules

How the balls are arranged in the rack may be one sort of house rule.

Most establishments have special table rules. For example: requiring the loser(s) to buy a round for the winner(s). The house might modify how the game is played, such as a rule stating the winning shot must be banked off one or more rails. Before you get involved in a game, understand the stakes and rules.