Mahj Mind

Mahjong Group Guidelines

We are a welcoming mix of players; some are taking their first lessons, others are experienced, and everyone is invited to join us! We follow National Mahjong League (NMJL) rules for all play, with a few House Rules that support fairness, kindness, and a positive table experience for everyone.

Our Mission

Foster friendship and community
Welcome new players while supporting experienced ones
Encourage all players to grow their skills and confidence

House Rules & Etiquette

Mahjong moves quickly, and a supportive table makes the game more enjoyable for everyone.
We’re happy to slow the game down for newer players, but we ask that everyone come with a basic understanding of the rules. Practicing outside the group (including online) is encouraged to build confidence.
Since players are at different skill levels, patience and positivity go a long way. Mistakes happen. When they do, we correct them, keep playing, and focus on maintaining a supportive and fun atmosphere.
Respect is required at every table. Discrimination or poor sportsmanship, including refusing to sit, disruptive behavior, or unsportsmanlike conduct, will not be tolerated and may result in removal or exclusion from future events.
Our games are purely social, with no money involved—just the joy of playing together and celebrating every “Mahjong!”

Phones & Staying Present

Staying present helps the table flow smoothly and keeps the game enjoyable for everyone.

Please keep phones silenced and out of use during play.
If you’re expecting an important call (doctor, family, etc.), let your table know ahead of time and step out of the room to take it.
If you need to send a quick text, please do so between games or during a break.

Thank you for helping create a respectful, focused space where everyone’s time and attention are valued.

Open Play Sessions:

Join us at our Open Play tables to practice your skills and enjoy the game!

These sessions are designed for players who have taken American Mahjong classes or already know how to play. No lessons are provided during Open Play.

Table Rotations

With five or nine players, the last East rotates out so a waiting player can join.
With three players, we often play with the Charleston (though tournament rules do not allow this). If all agree on a method, we follow table rules.
Volunteers may rotate or switch tables to ensure fairness and enjoyment.

Common Rules to Remember

The Dealer, East, takes the first 4 tiles, and then each player takes their 4 tiles in clockwise order.
A wall tile moved or lifted is considered a tile taken. You may not change your mind to pick up a discarded tile.
A discarded tile may be claimed if called before a picked tile is placed on the rack.
Jokers may not be passed, picked from discards, or used as a single or with a pair.
A discard may be claimed for a single or pair only if it completes Mahjong.

Dead Hands

You cannot declare your own hand dead. Another player may call a hand dead when a violation is visible.

Dead hand violations may be identified by exposures, having too many or too few tiles, an invalid Mahjong, or other visible information such as discards. Pay attention when drawing, too. Always pick from the correct end of the correct wall on your turn.

The rules may feel strict, but they help keep the game fair and consistent for everyone.

Mistakes happen, even to experienced players. Slow down, check your tiles, and develop good habits to reduce the risk.

If you notice a potential dead hand, there’s no need to immediately announce, “Your hand is dead.” Instead, ask a simple question that gives the player a chance to recognize the issue themselves before their next turn:

“How many tiles do you have in your rack?”
“Are you playing a concealed hand?”

A calm, curious approach keeps the moment from feeling confrontational. Once a hand is called dead, the player sits out for the remainder of that game, so a little patience and good table etiquette can go a long way.

Above all, we play to have fun, connect with others, and share the joy of Mahjong!