On this page
- 1. Respect for others
- 2. Control your speed and way of skiing
- 3. Choice of route — the person ahead has priority
- 4. Overtaking
- 5. Entering, starting and moving upwards
- 6. Stopping on the piste
- 7. Climbing and walking
- 8. Respect signs and markings
- 9. Assistance
- 10. Identification
- Extra rules beginners should know
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) publishes ten rules of conduct that apply on slopes worldwide. They’re used by courts and insurers to judge responsibility after collisions, so every skier and snowboarder should know them. North American resorts use a very similar Responsibility Code. Here they are, explained in plain English.
1. Respect for others
Ski or ride in a way that doesn’t endanger or harm anyone else.
2. Control your speed and way of skiing
Adapt your speed to your ability, the terrain, the snow, the weather and how busy the slope is. You must always be able to stop or avoid someone.
3. Choice of route — the person ahead has priority
The skier or rider coming from behind (uphill) must choose a route that doesn’t endanger people in front. As a beginner, this means faster skiers are responsible for avoiding you — but stay predictable.
4. Overtaking
You may overtake above or below, on the left or right, but always leave enough space for the person being overtaken to make any movement.
5. Entering, starting and moving upwards
Before joining a run, starting after a stop or moving uphill, look up and down the slope to make sure you can do it safely.
6. Stopping on the piste
Don’t stop in narrow places or where visibility is limited (below a ridge, around a bend), unless necessary. After a fall, clear the area as quickly as possible. Stop at the side of the run.
7. Climbing and walking
If you have to walk up or down, do it at the edge of the run.
8. Respect signs and markings
Obey all signs, markings and closures. Closed runs may have avalanche danger, grooming machines or winch cables.
9. Assistance
At an accident, everyone is obliged to help. Secure the area (plant crossed skis above the injured person), give first aid and alert the ski patrol.
10. Identification
Anyone involved in or witnessing an accident must exchange names and contact details.
Extra rules beginners should know
- Use a ski leash or brake — runaway skis and boards are dangerous.
- Slow zones: respect them near beginner areas, lifts and junctions.
- Terrain parks have their own rules (see next level).
- Alcohol and skiing don’t mix; in several countries there are legal limits on the slopes.
- Headphones: keep volume low or off so you can hear others.
- Helmets are mandatory for children in many countries.
In short: be in control, look uphill before you go, stop at the side, and help if something happens.
Frequently asked questions
Who has right of way on a ski slope?
The skier or snowboarder in front (downhill) has priority. The person coming from behind is responsible for avoiding them.
Where should I stop on a ski run?
At the side of the run, in a visible place — never in the middle, in narrow sections, or just below a ridge or bend.
