Tolerance for off-topicness in threads?

[Admin]

There are a few threads where discussions have gotten off-topic, and it was pointed out. I don't have a policy in place for threads going off-topic, but consider it common courtesy to make a new thread to continue a discussion if the direction strayed from the original. The original posters of some threads may have higher tolerance for off-topic posts in their threads than others.

My questions to other members: How much do you tolerate off-topic posts in your threads, if you made any, or would you tolerate? Where do you draw the line between a topic branching out but can stay in the same thread, vs. needing to make a new thread for it? Is there any need for a policy?

[SCH0206]

I have yet started a topic.  All of my posts here so far are responses to others' threads.  But, if I were to start a topic, I would highly prefer that participants stick to the main subjects.  A pet peeve of mine is when people go on tangents.  I'm not sure if there's a need for a specific policy, but sticking to topics should be greatly encouraged.