How to moderate an ER:LC private server

A busy ER:LC private server can have dozens of players at once, and it only takes one person ramming cars or random-killing to spoil the roleplay for everyone. Good moderation keeps the server fun without making it feel strict. This guide covers what works for most communities.

1. Write rules people can actually follow

Keep your rules short and specific. "Be respectful" is hard to enforce; "No random deathmatch (RDM): don't attack players without a roleplay reason" is clear. Most ER:LC servers cover:

• RDM and VDM (random killing, and running people over)
• Failing to roleplay, such as ignoring a traffic stop
• Staying inside the area of play during a session
• Restricted vehicles and teams
• Exploiting, harassment and inappropriate usernames

Post the rules in your Discord and pin a short version in game with a timed announcement, so new players see them without having to look. Our rules template has a full set to copy.

2. Build a staff team with clear ranks

Start small: a few trusted moderators are better than lots of inactive ones. Give each rank a clear job. Trial moderators might only warn and kick, moderators can ban, and admins manage staff and settings. Write down what each rank can do, then make sure your tools match it. Our moderator training guide covers how to bring new staff up to speed.

Set an activity target, such as a number of hours a week, so you can see who's putting in the time. Let staff request leave, so a holiday isn't mistaken for inactivity.

3. Handle rule-breakers the same way every time

Players accept punishments much better when they're consistent. A common ladder is:

1. A private message reminding them of the rule (:pm in game)
2. A formal warning that's recorded
3. A kick (:kick) if they carry on
4. A temporary ban for repeat or serious offences
5. A permanent ban (:ban) for exploiting or the worst behaviour

Before you act, check the player's history. Someone on their third warning this week needs a different response from a first-timer. The commands are explained in our ER:LC commands list.

4. Keep records of every action

Write down who did what, to whom, why, and attach a clip or screenshot. Records protect your staff when a player disputes a ban, show you who keeps causing trouble, and make it easy to review a moderator who's too harsh or too soft.

5. Let automations handle the routine

A lot of moderation is repetitive: greeting new players, posting reminders, spotting brand-new accounts during a raid, or kicking someone who rejoins straight after being kicked. ER:LC's private server API lets tools do this for you, so staff can focus on the roleplay.

6. Review regularly

Once a week, look at who's been punished most, which staff are most active and whether any rule keeps being broken. If one rule is broken constantly, it may need rewording, or a reminder in your announcements.

How Dispatcher helps

Dispatcher is a free moderation and staff management platform built for ER:LC. Its moderator panel shows each player's history and risk level next to the warn, jailban, kick and ban buttons, and every action is logged with evidence. Roles control exactly what each rank can do, shifts and leave feed into activity targets, and automations cover welcome messages, announcements, raid and RDM detection, whitelisted vehicles and the area of play. Read the getting started guide to set it up in about five minutes.