In general, the rules of 5-on-5 non-contact flag football are similar to the rules used in normal football. The most obvious exception is, in the 5-on-5 game, no contact is allowed. This includes tackling, downfield blocking, run blocking, pass blocking, or blocking of any kind. To stop an offensive player's progress, the defensive player is required to pull the offensive player's flag.
Some of the other idiosyncrasies of the game include:
- Number of Downs: The offense will start on their 5 yard line (except if there is an interception or penalty). Each team will have three downs to advance the ball across the first down marker (mid-field yard marker) or into the opposing end zone. After a team crosses the first down marker, it receives three more downs in which to score. If a team is driven back behind the mid-field yard marker, they are not awarded another first down in that series. If a team does not get a first down or score after the third down the opponent gets the ball on their 5 yard line.
- Rushing the Quarterback: The defense can rush the quarterback immediately after the snap of the ball. Players who rush the quarterback must start the play at least seven yards off of the line of scrimmage. Before the snap, the referee will mark the seven yards off for the rusher. The quarterback has only seven seconds to throw the football. The referee will count out loud after the snap of the ball to indicate the seven second count.
- Running the Football: Teams are allowed to run the football, but only after a hand-off. A player receiving a hand-off in the backfield has the option to run or pass the ball. After a hand-off occurs, opposing players can rush from anywhere on the field. Also, a hand-off kills the seven second clock, enabling the offensive player to remain in the backfield without throwing the ball as long as he/she wants.
- No-run Zones: There are certain zones on the field where the offense is not able to run the football. These zones exist five yards before mid-field and five yards before the end-zone.
- No Fumbles: A fumbled ball is dead at the spot of the fumble.
- No Laterals or Pitches beyond the line of scrimmage - Players are not allowed to pitch or lateral the football beyond the line of scrimmage.