Like the rest of the Norwegian football league system, the season runs from spring to autumn, running approximately from April to October.
[1] A play-off system was established and the number of teams promoting from 4. divisjon was reduced to 18.
Since the 2017 season, 4. divisjon teams have been eligible to qualify for the Norwegian Cup.
Like in the rest of the Norwegian football league system, all the teams play each other twice, once at home and once away.
The District Football Associations are responsible for the administration of 4. divisjon.
[2] After changes in the Norwegian football pyramid, no teams were promoted from the 4. divisjon after the 2016 season.
With fewer teams in the above tiers of the football pyramid, 4. divisjon teams routinely participate in the Norwegian Football Cup.
Reserve teams of clubs from higher divisions can participate in the 4. divisjon.
The District Football Associations are responsible for the administration of 4. divisjon.