Do some folk go overboard with their forum rules?...

[Teg]

That's debatable... Why, well because the type of forum will be the primary reason for any forum rules set for a forum. So, preferences will also determine forum rules. Majority of forum owners set rules to protect their content, clients, and members. That being said, No, I don't think forum owners rules are over the top (typically anyway). There are a select few, but not a whole lot.

 

[Platipoo]

When I open a 'Rules' page or post and end up being faced by a large block of text which looks more like a legal document then I usually go away instantly.

This pretty much. I honestly do not like forums with a long list of things you cannot do. It's easy to say "Don't do this" without going all overboard and essay like. You're not a lawyer, you're an admin. If you have that many things that you do not like, you should not be running a forum. 😛

Third that. Such a turn-off. Though if I really, REALLY, want to be in that site I'll end up coming back and read them all sometime later because I'm paranoid. If I don't, well I'd self-purge my account instantly if there is an option to.

I do agree that some seemingly over the top rules might have rational bases for their implementation, though. I have a hard time differentiating that and a childish forum admin sometimes.

 

[Mozzie]

I know a few forums that are ridicules with their rules, like power playing , it is a turn off for me , i have about 3 rules on mine

 

[MrDawn]

Yes. I've even had a warning slapped on me for things that weren't in the rules and guidelines. So I left. I don't put up with that and I think some forums like that tend to get hit with inactivity. Serves them right.