ETR Autocross Sound Policy

[MARKP]

It is important that we enforce a sound policy for a couple reasons. First, some of our sites have neighbors that care about the amount of noise we make. Therefore, we must keep sound levels reasonable to help keep sites where we can run events. Sound enforcement levels can vary from site to site based on the neighbors we have around. Second, we have workers that are out there without hearing protection. As much as we like listening to cars, long term exposure to high decibels from exhaust systems can damage your hearing.
For most of our sites, we will be running a 100db limit. For events at Pellissippi State, there are a lot of neighbors nearby. As a result, we will run a 96db limit. We expect that some competitors will want to make modifications to their exhaust systems to ensure compliance. As a point of note, several of the fastest cars and drivers in ETR can meet this sound policy.
We will have a sound meter at every event. Expect it to be placed adjacent to the course where you will be on throttle. It will be 50’ from the edge of the course and will be set to the same settings at every event. We recommend that, if you are concerned about the sound level, you bring steel wool, wire mesh, and hose clamps with you to the event. If your car does not meet sound, these can typically be used to reduce the sound levels by a couple of db. This is only a temporary fix as this will eventually blow out so bring plenty of material with you. Please don’t plan to use this at every event as this solution would create more backpressure in the exhaust than using a proper muffler. Several of our more experienced autocrossers can help you with additional suggestions if you need them.
The use of an adjustable directional exhaust exit to laterally aim the exhaust output away from the sound meter position is not acceptable. Adjustable directional exhaust exits may only be aimed straight up, straight down, or straight back. Additionally, intentionally lifting off the exhaust when passing the meter is not acceptable and will be scored as a DNF.
In the event that your car exceeds the db limit, you will be given an opportunity to correct it. If your car exceeds the db limit again, you may not be given another run that day.
We want to reiterate that the sound policy is in place to help us maintain places where we can run and to help you and your fellow competitors enjoy the sport for a long time to come. Please feel free to ask questions as we will be happy to help however we can. See you soon!