What is the Spectator Interference Rule in Ice Hockey?

Though the situation does not often come up in ice hockey, spectator interference rules are in place. These rules dictate what referees should do when a person not directly involved with a hockey game, such as a parent or other fan, somehow intervene and interfere with a hockey game that is taking place. These rules not only instruct a referee how he or she should handle a spectator interfering with a hockey player, but also state what shall happen if a player happens to interfere with someone that is watching the game.

If a spectator interferes with an ice hockey player then play will be stopped right away, unless the team who is being interfered with is currently in possession of the puck. For example, if a player is currently serving a penalty and is in the penalty box, and someone watching the game enters the penalty box in some manner, then the play needs to be stopped by the referee and the situation needs to be straightened out. It is important that the situation gets taken care of quickly so that it does not escalate, because if a player somehow happens to become involved in any kind of altercation with the fan, then disciplinary measures can be taken against the player. The spectator should be escorted out of the arena by the staff working at the ice rink.

If a player somehow physically interferes with someone that is watching the game, then he or she is will face disciplinary actions. The referee is responsible for reporting what happened during the game to the proper authorities and they should figure out the proper penalty for the player based on what occurred during the game.

If a fan decides to throw some kind of object on to the ice during the course of play, then the referee should stop play immediately. If tripped on, these items could cause significant injury to the players. After the play is stopped, the referee should conduct a face off at a location that was near the puck when the play was stopped. This can occur at any time, in any zone, depending on when the referee blew the whistle.

Sources:

USA Hockey
Carbon Hockey Sticks