Operator Station Size

The rules say there will be a 12" shelf. I assume the entire 12" is usable (no obstacles, etc.).

Is there any problem with having a station that extends past the front? Of course, we would have to worry about balance, etc., but I want to be sure there is no problem as far as the rules. Some of the posts from last year mentioned that the controls HAD to fit on the shelf. I don’t know if that was meant literally or just that it couldn’t be huge, etc.

The rules don’t specifically mention whether the console has to fit completely on the shelf or not.

Thanks!