Media Policy

The Northwest Rally Association (NWRA) has established this media policy to establish the requirements and protocols necessary to safely permit media personnel at motorsports events. 

Applying for Credentials

General Media (Photography and Videography, no drones)

Application for general media access to NWRA events can be found on the Media Application page and are reviewed on a rolling basis. Submissions must be made at least 10 days prior to an event to be considered. Applicants are encouraged to apply at least two weeks prior. Applicants will receive an email one week before each event with information, instructions and required paperwork. You only need to apply once per calendar year. 

Drone Media

Application for drone media access to NWRA events can be found on the Drone Application page and are reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants should include as much information as possible to create the best chance of approval. Submissions must be made at least two weeks prior to an event to be considered. Applications sent less than two weeks before an event will not be contacted until after the upcoming event. Applicants will receive an approval email as well as an email one week before each event with information, instructions and required paperwork. Drone operators must apply for each individual event as we must control the drones in operation at events.

Please note: A FAA license is preferred but not required. If you are not a licensed pilot, we will conduct a more thorough review of your work to ensure that you have a long history of safe conduct at motorsports events.

NWRA Media Use Policy

  • NWRA reserves the right to receive copies of images, video, or audio content created at NWRA events by media personnel. Any content used in NWRA social media postings on behalf of NWRA will be credited to the creator.

  • NWRA reserves the right to demand content deemed harmful to the organization, events or competitors be removed immediately.

  • NWRA may ban any media personnel or outlet unwilling to follow NWRA media policies.

  • Content created for commercial use must be pre-approved by NWRA. All media planning a commercial digital, film, or television program must contact NWRA at info@nwrallyassociation with a detailed description and proposal of the requested commercial use. Proposals will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Media Code of Conduct

By applying for NWRA media access, applicants agree to uphold the following Code of Conduct. All media personnel must:

  • Be responsible for the safety of competitors, race officials/workers and themselves.

  • Follow instructions from all race officials and workers at all times.

  • Treat all officials, volunteers, spectators, the public and other competitors with respect and courtesy. 

  • Know, understand and follow all regulations as stated herein.

On Course Safety Procedures

Racing is a dangerous activity and all who participate as competitors, workers and attendees are responsible for their own personal safety and the safety of others. NWRA has drafted these safety protocols to help media personnel maintain a safe position and practices. 

  1. Pay attention. Vehicles can lose control at any point in competition.

    1. Always keep your eyes on the cars and avoid turning your back on the course/track. Often, there will be 2-4 cars on a course at a given time. 

    2. Listen for cars approaching as you will often hear them before you see them. Keep in mind that electric vehicles put off little noise so do not rely solely on sound to alert you of an approaching vehicle. 

    3. Avoid unnecessary distractions such as using your phone while on course. Move to a safe location to engage in these activities. 

  2. Do not stand on the outside of corners or likely crash zones such as down range from jumps or fast sections.

  3. Stand at least three feet back from barriers such as ecology blocks, walls or armco/traffic barriers. 

  4. Have an escape route planned to allow you to reach a safe location in the event a vehicle loses control.

  5. Do not enter or cross the course/track during competition and plan your locations accordingly. If you choose to be on the infield of course, plan to stay for the duration of the session. There may be periods of time where competition is stopped or paused, during which you may cross the course/track only if you have received the approval of an official or worker.  

  6. Follow the directions of NWRA officials and workers at all times. 

  7. Any media person wishing to work outside of the spectator area must have prior approval from NWRA. 

  8. All media personnel must wear a yellow, high visibility vest. NWRA can issue the vest or you may provide your own. No other colors are permitted. 

Drone Policy

NWRA may grant media access to drone operators under limited conditions. To apply for credentials, apply using the Drone Media Application form.  Applicants will be reviewed based on:

  • Experience operating a drone in a motorsports setting

  • Volume and duration of experience

  • Certifications

Applicants will be notified no less than one week prior to an event of their eligibility. If an application for drone operation is denied, you are still eligible for standard media access. Drone applications must be submitted two weeks ahead of an event to be reviewed in time for said event.