The 10 FIS rules for skiers and snowboarders

The rules of the FIS, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, are the highway code of the slopes. A first set was proposed in 1963 by Panathlon International, the FIS adopted its own version at the 1967 Beirut congress and has updated it several times since, up to the 2002 edition. They apply all over the world and, after an accident, they are the yardstick for judging how the people on the slope behaved. The official text is on the FIS website.

The 10 rules

1. Respect for others

Behave so that you do not endanger anyone. You are also responsible for your equipment: if you rent, choose skis that suit your level.

2. Control of speed when skiing or snowboarding

Ski under control and adapt your speed to your ability, the terrain, the snow, the weather and how many people are on the slope. You must be able to stop at any moment. Slow down near lift stations, in crowded sections and when visibility is poor.

3. Choice of route

The skier coming from above has the best view, so it is up to them to pick a line that does not put anyone below at risk. The person in front of you always has priority.

4. Overtaking

You can overtake above or below, on the right or on the left, leaving enough room for the movements of the person you are passing, including involuntary ones. The responsibility is yours until the manoeuvre is over, even with someone standing still.

5. Entering, starting and moving upwards

Before you join a slope, set off after a stop or move uphill, look up and down the slope. Many accidents start this way, with a push-off and no glance over the shoulder.

6. Stopping on the piste

Avoid stopping in narrow spots and places with poor visibility. If you fall there, clear the slope as quickly as you can. When you need a break, stop at the edge.

7. Climbing and descending on foot

If you have to walk on the slope, keep to the edge. Skiers coming down do not expect to find you in the middle, and deep footprints are dangerous for those who follow.

8. Respect for signs and markings

Follow signs and markings: slope colours, bans, hazards, slow zones. They are there for everyone.

9. Assistance

If there is an accident, everyone must help as far as they can: raise the alarm, warn those coming down and protect the injured person.

10. Identification

Anyone involved in an accident, including as a witness, must give their name and contact details. Their account matters in working out what happened.

What Italian law requires

On Italian slopes, as well as the FIS rules, you must follow Legislative Decree 40/2021 and the 2025 Sport Decree:

• Helmets are mandatory at any age for skiing, snowboarding, sledging and tobogganing from the 2025/26 season. The fine can reach €150.
• You need third-party liability insurance for damage to others. Without it you can be fined and have your ski pass revoked. You can usually add it when you buy the pass.

Why this matters when you rent

Rule one talks about equipment, and we take that seriously: a ski that is too stiff or made for a level you have not reached takes away your control. If you are not sure what to choose, read which ski to choose for Livigno or ask at the counter. You can add a helmet to your set when you book online.