6 Surprising Rules Oscar Nominees and Attendees Have to Follow

The prestigious Oscars, formally known as the Academy Awards, are not just a celebration of cinematic excellence, but also a deeply regulated affair. Governed by strict rules and protocols established by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the event has garnered attention for its ceremonial aspects as much as for its award presentations.

Held annually at the renowned Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles since 2001, the Oscars attract the biggest stars in the film industry, transforming the event into one of the most-watched spectacles globally. However, access to this glittering night remains elusive, as tickets are scarce and come with stipulations that guests are expected to follow.

One of the first requirements for attendees is adherence to a formal dress code. Historically, the Oscars have maintained a white tie dress code, with expectations for female attendees to don floor-length gowns in pastel colours. Over time, the dress code has transitioned to a more relaxed black-tie format, yet it continues to emphasise sophistication. The Academy has even advocated for eco-conscious fashion choices, encouraging attendees to wear vintage or sustainable outfits, as outlined in its Sustainability Style Guide.

Another rigid rule that guests must observe pertains to bathroom breaks. During the live broadcast, nominees and other attendees are urged to remain seated to maintain the event’s flow. One seasoned attendee, reflecting on past ceremonies, advised that “toilet needs should be timed appropriately,” noting that leaving once the cameras have started rolling can lead to significant wait times until the next advertising break.

In addition to the strict dress code and bathroom etiquette, guests are also prohibited from bringing outside food and beverages into the venue. This has not stopped some celebrities from trying to sneak in snacks. For example, at the 2014 Oscars, host Ellen DeGeneres famously ordered pizza for some attendees, while in 2020, young actress Julia Butters was seen munching on a turkey sandwich on the red carpet, unapologetically declaring, “It’s the Oscars, there can’t be any regrets.”

Winners of the coveted Oscars are likewise subject to specific guidelines, particularly about their acceptance speeches. Recipients are allotted just 45 seconds to deliver their gratitude before being gently ushered off the stage with music, a rule that many have defied in practice. Notably, Adrien Brody set a record in 2025 with a speech lasting an impressive five minutes and 40 seconds.

Occupying the seats of nominees during their temporary absences are “seat fillers,” individuals tasked with keeping the audience looking full. These fillers face their own set of restrictions: they must adhere to a formal dress code and refrain from initiating conversations with prominent attendees unless addressed first. One former seat filler described the experience as reminiscent of “Hunger Games vibes,” highlighting the surreal atmosphere of the event.

Among the most intriguing of the Academy’s rules is the stipulation surrounding the ownership of Oscar statuettes. Winning an Oscar is a monumental achievement, yet winners are restricted in how they can handle their awards. According to the Academy’s regulations, individuals cannot sell their Oscar statuettes without first offering them back to AMPAS for the nominal sum of just $1. This rule applies not only to the winners but also extends to their heirs, thereby preserving the integrity and prestige of the award.

Looking ahead, the 98th Academy Awards are set to be broadcast on March 15 at 7 p.m. ET, promising yet another night filled with recognition of cinematic artistry, underpinned by the age-old traditions and stringent regulations that have come to define the Oscars over the decades. As attendees prepare to walk the red carpet, they must not only be ready to celebrate the best in film but also to navigate the myriad of rules that govern one of Hollywood’s most illustrious nights.