push declined due to repository rule violations

3 min read 11-03-2025

Getting a "push declined due to repository rule violations" message can be frustrating. This comprehensive guide will help you understand why this happens and how to resolve these issues. We'll cover common causes, troubleshooting steps, and best practices to prevent future problems.

Common Causes of Repository Rule Violations

Several reasons can trigger a push rejection. Let's explore the most frequent ones:

1. Git Hooks: Pre-commit and Pre-push

Many repositories employ Git hooks, scripts that run automatically before or after specific Git actions (like committing or pushing). A pre-commit hook might check code style (e.g., using linters like ESLint or Pylint), while a pre-push hook might enforce specific policies. If your code doesn't meet the criteria defined in these hooks, your push will be rejected.

2. Commit Message Formatting

Consistent commit messages are crucial for maintainability. Repositories often have rules about commit message formatting, specifying things like:

Length: Maximum or minimum character counts.
Structure: Required elements (e.g., type, scope, subject). Often following conventions like Conventional Commits.
Keywords: Prohibited or required words.

Failure to adhere to these guidelines leads to push rejection.

3. File Size Limits

Some repositories impose limits on file sizes to manage storage and performance. Attempting to push excessively large files will result in a push failure.

4. File Type Restrictions

Certain file types might be prohibited to prevent security risks or maintain project consistency. Executable files or specific types of configuration files could be blocked.

5. Branch Protection Rules

Many teams utilize branch protection rules to safeguard critical branches (like main or master). These rules can prevent direct pushes to the protected branch, requiring the use of pull requests for code integration and review.

6. Code Style Enforcement

Repositories frequently use linters and formatters (like Prettier or Black) to enforce consistent code style. Pushing code that violates these style guidelines will often be rejected.

Troubleshooting and Resolving Violations

Let's walk through how to debug and fix these common problems:

1. Check the Rejection Message

The error message itself often provides clues. Pay close attention to the specific violation. It might indicate an issue with the commit message, file size, file type, or code style.

2. Review Your Commit Message

Ensure your commit message adheres to the repository's guidelines. Use tools or extensions to help format your messages.

3. Examine Your Files

Check for oversized files or prohibited file types. Consider compressing large files or restructuring your project to avoid them. Remove any unintended files.

4. Run Linters and Formatters

Before committing, run any relevant linters and formatters to identify and fix code style issues. Many IDEs integrate these tools directly.

5. Consult the Repository's Documentation or Contributing Guidelines

The repository's README file, documentation, or contributing guidelines will often detail its rules and policies. Look for sections on commit message formatting, code style, or other restrictions.

6. Use a Pull Request (If Applicable)

If branch protection rules are in place, use a pull request (PR) to submit your changes. This allows for code review and prevents direct pushes to protected branches.

Best Practices to Avoid Future Violations

Read the contributing guidelines carefully before starting any work. Understand the rules and policies upfront to avoid problems later.
Set up your local environment to enforce code style automatically. Use linters and formatters in your IDE or through your terminal.
Use a consistent commit message formatting strategy. Leverage tools or extensions to assist with this process.
Regularly check for oversized files and remove unnecessary items. Keep your repository clean and organized.
Test your commits locally before pushing. Catch errors and violations early.

By understanding the potential causes and taking proactive steps, you can avoid the frustration of push rejections and ensure your contributions smoothly integrate into the repository. Remember, consistent adherence to repository rules helps maintain code quality, security, and collaboration within a team.