Discord has quickly become a vital platform for gaming communities, organizations, study groups, and friends. Setting the right tone for your Discord server is essential. One way to achieve this is by establishing clear and concise server rules. This blog post will guide you through creating, implementing, and maintaining a robust set of rules for your own server.

Introduction to Discord Server Rules

A Discord server functions much like your virtual living room, a space where diverse individuals gather to connect and communicate. Just as every household or community operates on certain guidelines and etiquette, a Discord server also necessitates its own structured set of rules. These regulations play a pivotal role not only in maintaining harmony and order, but also in fostering an environment where all members, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs, feel genuinely welcome, safe, and respected. Establishing clear and fair rules ensures the smooth functioning of the server, minimizes conflicts, and creates a cohesive digital community for everyone.

1. The Importance of a Rules Channel

Creating a rules channel is the first step. Here, members can easily familiarize themselves with what’s expected. This standalone channel will house all the rules and specifics. Having a dedicated rules channel makes it easy for members to revisit them when needed. You can add rules at any time.

2. Key Elements of Server Rules

Server rules can be general or specific. However, most servers benefit from a mix of both. General rules typically cover respect, hate speech, and inappropriate language. Meanwhile, specific rules might cover voice channels etiquette, bot commands, or media channel content. Server owners should ensure a balanced mix of these rules to cater to the unique needs of their community.

3. Setting Up a Dedicated Rules Channel

For any Discord server, particularly those with growing communities, it becomes paramount to create a rules channel. This separate space ensures that guidelines are easily accessible and not lost amidst the flurry of other conversations. Using a copy-and-paste function can help speed this process up.

When you create a rules channel, it serves as a testament to the server’s commitment to maintaining order. As a Discord server owner, you’re placing the community’s well-being at the forefront, ensuring that every member knows where to find essential protocols and conduct requirements.

Furthermore, having a dedicated space for rules can help reduce instances where discord users unintentionally disrupt chat. They have a clear, easily accessible resource to refer to, minimizing ambiguities and potential mishaps.

To make things easy for other server members, consider starting with a rules template. Here, you can copy and paste key rule ideas and modify them to suit your community’s needs.

4. Basic Discord Rules

Before diving deep, let’s establish some basic Discord rules:

• No hate speech or derogatory language.

• No NSFW content in non-NSFW channels.

• No illegal content

• Respect all other members.

• Refrain from spam messages and small messages.

It’s great to cover general rules, but the magic lies in the specifics:

• No background noise in voice chat channels.

• Use appropriate channels for discussions.

• No religious discussions outside of designated channels.

For a more in-depth set of rules. Check this Discord server rules list out.

9. Handling Inappropriate Behavior

To keep your community a positive community, it’s essential to define what counts as inappropriate behavior:

• Avoid using inappropriate language.

• No personal attacks or malicious threats.

It’s crucial to address the NSFW topic:

• NSFW content should be restricted to appropriate channels

• Clearly label NSFW channels.

• Ensure NSFW content doesn’t spill into general areas.

• Remind members of the broader Discord guidelines regarding such content.

10. Voice Channel Etiquette

Voice channels need other rules to ensure clear conversations:

• Mute your mic when not speaking.

• No playing the same song repetitively.

• Avoid disruptive noise.

• Make a voice channel for all members

11. Setting Up Membership and Rules Screening

To ensure only Discord server members who agree to your rules join, set up membership screening and implement rule screening processes. This method requires members to undergo rule screening where they must accept the basic rules before they send messages or join voice chat channels. By incorporating rule screening, server owners can ensure more stringent adherence to the community guideline and rules list. If you are unsure, ask another server if you can copy and paste theirs!

12. The Role of Server Settings

Server settings are your best friend in maintaining order. Here, you can set advanced permissions, create channel categories, and set up membership screening. Regularly revisiting and updating these settings, especially membership screening options, ensures a safe and controlled environment for your community. Check out the Discord guide!

13. The Discord Community Guidelines

Always familiarize yourself with the Discord community guidelines and community settings. This will help your server rules align with Discord’s general expectations. You can copy and paste their rules if you please.

14. Implementing Bot Commands

Bots can be a great asset. However, lay out clear bot commands guidelines. For instance:

• No spamming bot commands.

• Use bot commands in designated channels.

• Do not invite unofficial bots.

For more information on bots, check out Top.gg,  or list on Discord Browser for free!

15. Enforcing the Rules

Rules are only as good as their enforcement:

• Consider having dedicated staff members.

• Implement a few more rules screening to ensure newcomers understand and commit to following the rules.

• Make use of pinned messages explaining procedures.

• Ensure server staff has appropriate permissions to manage and uphold the rules.

Not everyone will follow the rules. It’s essential to establish procedures for violations:

• First-time violations might receive a warning.

• Repeat offenders could face a temporary or permanent ban.

• Always provide a reason for any disciplinary actions.

   

18. The Role of Background Checks

For added security, especially in larger community servers, consider checking new members:

• Be cautious with blank profile pictures.

• Verify other users who only send messages that are small.

• Monitor for suspicious activities, such as spamming.

   

19. Moderation and Its Role

Maintaining a large Discord server without moderators is a challenge:

• Assign dedicated staff or moderators to oversee channels.

• Ensure they understand both the Discord rules and your server’s specifics.

• Provide them with the necessary tools and permissions to enforce rules.

Spam is a common nuisance on large servers:

• Clearly define what constitutes when other users send messages.

• Use bot commands or features to automatically detect and remove spam.

• Encourage members to report spammers to staff.

Every online platform has its share of trolls and disruptors. It’s crucial to have clear Discord server rules in place:

• Regularly review server settings and permissions to keep disruptive elements in check.

• Encourage community members to report such users. Quick action can deter potential trolls.

• Organize periodic community awareness sessions, where members can be educated on dealing with disruptors without escalating situations.

20. The Value of Feedback

• Your community can offer valuable insights:

• Regularly ask community members for their thoughts on rules.

• Consider creating a feedback channel where members can suggest rule ideas.

• Adapt and refine rules based on feedback, but ensure the core principles remain intact.

• Copy and paste feedback so other admins can take note.

21. Creating a Safe Environment

Safety should always be a priority:

• Strongly discourage sharing personal information or private messages in public channels.

• Be vigilant against threats, both external and from within the community.

• Have a procedure for members to report threats or uncomfortable situations.

While Discord is a platform for freedom of expression, some topics can lead to heated arguments:

• Designate specific channels for such discussions or avoid them altogether.

• Remind users to be respectful and avoid attacks.

• Monitor these channels closely to prevent any escalations.

Inclusivity is the cornerstone of a thriving community:

• Foster an environment where everyone, irrespective of background, feels welcome.

• Address any form of hate speech or derogatory language swiftly.

• Educate members on the importance of inclusivity.

  

22. The Power of Advanced Permissions

To ensure smooth operations:

• Dive into advanced permissions, allowing specific roles or individuals access to certain channels or actions.

• This can be especially helpful in larger servers, those with VIP sections, or when comparing protocols with other servers.

• Keep revisiting permissions as your community server grows and evolves.

23. Safeguarding Server Integrity and User Experience

A welcoming environment is vital. Encourage positive interactions and make sure new members feel integrated into your community. Celebrate achievements and positive moments.

While our community thrives on engagement and innovation:

Always be cautious about inviting unofficial bots or tools. It’s paramount to ensure the server’s safety.

Though the Discord platform is robust, always stay vigilant against other threats that can sometimes emerge in digital communities.

Should members encounter issues or have questions, we encourage them to ping staff members for assistance. Open communication ensures a harmonious server environment.

In the ever-evolving landscape of online interactions, other malicious threats can’t be completely ruled out, and awareness among users can serve as the first line of defense.

Our dedicated moderators reserve the right to take appropriate actions when necessary to maintain the server’s integrity.

A thriving community is built on collective effort, but remember, only you can ensure your personal online safety by being informed and cautious.

Sometimes, it might be necessary to remove a member permanently:

• Clearly state the conditions under which someone might be permanently banned.

• Always inform the individual of the reason.

• Ensure the decision is fair and unbiased.

Many times, users create accounts for various reasons:

• Establish clear rules regarding the usage of other accounts.

• Prevent ban evasion by monitoring for suspicious alternate accounts.

• Consider setting a rule against ghosting or lurking without participation.

24. Nurturing Growth

A growing server is a sign of success:

• Welcome new members warmly and guide them through the rules.

• Create mentorship programs or buddy systems for new members.

• Celebrate milestones, be it member counts, community server anniversaries, or partnerships with other communities.

Introduce a fresh vibe now and then:

• Plan server-wide events or game nights. Here is an in-depth article about Discord events and games.

• Establish rules for event participation and behavior.

• Celebrate community members who contribute or win during these events.

Many Discord servers now integrate virtual economies, complete with their own currencies, shops, and trade systems:

• If your server has such a system, ensure transparent guidelines on earning, spending, and trading virtual goods.

• Recheck server settings to prevent scams or exploitation and offer assistance channels where members can seek help or clarification regarding the virtual economy.

26. User-Generated Content and Discord Server Rules: A Double-Edged Sword

With the rise of user-generated content (UGC) on Discord servers, community members play an active role in shaping a server’s vibe and direction. While this brings fresh content and perspectives, it also comes with challenges:

• Ensure UGC adheres to both Discord guidelines and your server rules.

• Reassess your Discord server settings to provide a media channel dedicated to UGC, allowing other members to share their creations, be it art, music, or other content forms.

• Encourage positive feedback and constructive criticism, ensuring creators feel valued and motivated.

Final Reflections

Establishing a comprehensive set of general server rules isn’t just about listing dos and don’ts. It’s about crafting a space where everyone feels they belong. It’s an ongoing process, with feedback, adaptation, and the collective spirit at its heart.

Remember, a server that feels like a second home to its members is a server that thrives.

Stay connected, stay respectful, and here’s to building positive, engaging communities on Discord!

Rules Template