The Waiver Process and Supporting Forms

When a league applies for its annual charter with Little League, it pledges to abide by all the rules and regulations of Little League. However, under special circumstances, it may become necessary to apply for a temporary waiver of a rule or regulation.

It is very important to remember that a league must not take any action contrary to Little League rules and regulations until receiving expressed, written permission through the Charter Committee waiver system. A waiver request, while it may be supported by documents from the parent(s), may be submitted only through the proper chain of command. Waivers, if granted, are for the current season only. 

Not sure what information to submit with a waiver request? Click here to access the Waiver Quick Reference Guide.

A league wishing to apply for a waiver of a rule or regulation must do so via the following method:

1. The President, VP, or Player Agent emails Phil Rizzo, DA and the ADA of the Division the waiver detailing the request. 
   - If the waiver request also concerns another League, that League President's comments must also be included.
   - For 2 (D), 4 (H), and 5 (A), Waiver requests the paper form must be included and submitted with supporting documents with the waiver request.
   The links to the forms are listed below for reference.
2. The District Administrator includes his/her written opinion, and forwards all documents to the Regional Director.
3. The Regional Director will present the situation to the Charter Committee for action.
4. The Charter Committee will inform the Regional Director of its decision, and the Regional Director will inform the District Administrator who will 
   then provide the League President with the Charter Committee's decision via its documented response.

Waiver Forms:

• Little League 2 (D) Waiver Form
• Little League 4 (H) Waiver Form
• Little League 5 (A) Waiver Form
• Waiver Submission Quick Reference Guide

FAQ's:

Can a local Little League waive its rights to a player who lives within its boundaries, allowing that player to participate in another Little League program?

A - A local Little League does not have the authority to waive such rights. Only the Charter Committee in Williamsport has this authority. If the Charter Committee votes to grant a waiver, the District Administrator will be informed in writing. 

Can a child who does not have residence within a league’s boundaries play in that league for the regular season only, provided he/she is not eligible for Tournament Play (all stars)?

A - The local league may request a waiver, listing all circumstances that warrant such a waiver. Only the Charter Committee in Williamsport can make the final decision. If the Charter Committee votes to grant a waiver, the District Administrator will be informed in writing.

If a parent signs a notarized statement granting temporary custody of a child to a friend or other family member, can that friend or family member’s residence be used for registering a child to play in Little League?

A - The only acceptable documentation regarding a change of custody is court-ordered custody (a decree issued by a judge who has jurisdiction in the matter).

Does the District Administrator have the authority to grant a waiver of a rule or regulation? Example: Could the District Administrator give permission for a local league to register players whose residence is outside the league’s boundaries?

A - Any waiver of a rule or regulation can only be made by the Charter Committee in Williamsport. No other person or group has this authority. If the Charter Committee votes to grant a waiver, the District Administrator will be informed in writing.

If the District Administrator is opposed to the request, does it mean it will fail?

A - All of the aspects of a waiver request are taken into account by the Charter Committee, and the opinion of one or more parties involved does not necessarily mean the request will be denied.