For icing purposes, how high does the goal line extend?
Indefinitely. Rule References 103(a) and 624(Note).
The goal line extends horizontally across the entire width of the rink and visibly up the side boards. Vertically, the goal line extends as high as the puck can travel.
Is the two inch thickness of the red goal line considered to be a part of the goal line?
Yes. Rule Reference 103(a) and 624 (Note).
The thickness of the goal line is considered to be a part of the line. In order for a goal to be allowed or Icing to be called, the entire puck must completely cross the edge closest to the end boards.
Do the principles of the goal line and goal crease apply to the cross-ice goal line and crease in the same manner?
Yes. Rule Reference 103(a and b).
If used, the cross-ice goal lines and crease would be handled the same way as the rule applying to the regular goal line and crease.
Is the two inch red line outlining the goal crease considered to be a part of the goal crease?
Yes. Rule Reference 103(b).
The goal crease area includes the space bounded by the outside edges of the semi-circular crease lines.
How is the “goal crease” to be interpreted if playing a game in an arena with a different goal crease design?
All rulings must be made based on the USA Hockey standard crease. Rule Reference 103(b).
In many rinks, there may also be creases marked that are different from the USA Hockey goal crease. In situations where the USA Hockey crease is not outlined, the official will need to mentally outline where the USA Hockey crease would be if properly marked. In many cases, only a truncated version of the crease is shaded blue, but the edges of the USA Hockey crease are still marked with a red line. This area must be considered part of the crease even though it may not be shaded blue.
In which zone are the blue lines considered to be a part?
The zone in which the puck is located. Rule Reference 103(c). For application, see Rule 630 - Offside.
The blue line may be a part of the Neutral Zone and then switch to be a part of the Attacking/Defending Zone based on the location of the puck. The determining edge of the blue line is always the edge further from the zone in which the puck is located.
In which half of the ice is the center red line located?
The half in which the puck is located. Rule Reference 103(d).
Similar to the blue line, the determining edge of the center red line is always the edge further from the half of the ice in which the puck is located. This is true in all instances except for icing and the practical application of the icing rule would suggest icing would be nullified if the player shooting the puck gains the center red line.
