POCKET MARKERS - What's Allowed (and Not Allowed)?

September 24, 2025 at 4:33 PM

by San Diego APA

POCKET MARKERS - What's Allowed (and Not Allowed)?

September 24, 2025 at 4:33 PM

by San Diego APA

General guidelines regarding pocket markers during 8-ball

  • Weapons are not allowed and will result in suspension
    • BOG will determine if a pocket marker is deemed a weapon and requires a suspension
  • Money and chalk are allowed (not recommended but allowed, see below)
  • Inappropriate and offensive pocket markers should NOT be used
  • Common sense should come into play when picking a pocket marker
  • Teams or players that repeatedly try to use inappropriate, offensive or impractical pocket markers will trigger the "Sportsmanship Violations" bylaw 

OTM References to Pocket Markers and Rules

Marking the pocket

a. A coaster or some other reasonable marker must be placed next to the shooter’s intended pocket. 

b. Marking the pocket with chalk is not recommended. 

c. Both players may use the same marker. 

d. Only one marker should remain on the table at a time. 

e. If the marker is already at the intended pocket from a previous attempt or game, it is not necessary to touch it, pick it up or reposition it. 

NOTE: Contacting a pocket marker with the 8-ball is not a foul and the shot stands.

OTM Page 55 "Marking the pocket": https://media.poolplayers.com/TMRB/Team-Manual-English.pdf 

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