DRUM CORPS INTERNATIONAL

2009
CONTEST RULES






A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION






Drum Corps International



Contest Rules and Regulations
*Copyright 2009

*Drum Corps International
P.O. Box 3129
Indianapolis, IN 46206
317.275.1212
DCI.org


*Any use or reproduction of this
document in any form for any
events other than those sponsored
or sanctioned by Drum Corps
International without the express
written consent of Drum Corps
International is strictly prohibited.


2009 DRUM CORPS CONTEST RULES,
REGULATIONS & INTERPRETATIONS





INTRODUCTION




This manual is designated by the Drum Corps International Board of Directors as its
official instructions, definitions and interpretations for all events operated and governed
by DCI. The material contained herein has been adopted by Drum Corps International
for use at all of its sponsored and sanctioned events.



The documents contained herein have been prepared and published for a better understanding
among judges and participants to the procedures required by the rules
approved through the 2009 Rules Process and prior years rules making sessions.





Should further clarification be necessary, please write or call,


Drum Corps International
P.O. Box 3129
Indianapolis, IN 46206
317.275.1212

For interpretation as to the intent of any rule or regulation contained herein.


The 2009 DCI Contest Rules are a combination of rules, regulations, and interpretations
that date back to 1972. There have been several changes to the contest rules over the
years, and it is important to note that, there are several statements that exist herein
unchanged, that may not necessarily apply to todays contest environment. Note that the
judging manual has been updated fully and it, and the Code of Conduct, are now published
as separate documents.
The DCI J udge Administrator and the DCI Contest Director work in harmony to ensure that
all matters left to interpretation of the written words in this document are assessed and
considered at length prior to judgment. J udgment is then made based on the best possible
solution for maintaining a fair and level playing field for all participating units. After a matter
has been considered at length, and ambiguity remains, generally the default guide will be
what is written.
In 1999, the DCI Board of Directors ceased the recognition of the Drum Corps Rules
Congress as the rules making authority and adopted a DCI Rules Change Process. It is
this process that now governs how rules are changed on an annual basis. Under the
direction of the DCI board of directors, the rules committee is charged with the
responsibility of the clarity and interpretation of the rules change process.
The ultimate guide in our endeavor should always be first what is in the best interest of
creating an environment for the performers to realize their goals to achieve excellence
through marching music performance. However, it is necessary to implement rules and
regulations in order to organize events that are fair and allow equal opportunity for success
to those wishing to participate.
Daniel E. Acheson
Executive Director, CEO
Drum Corps International, Inc.
May 2009



DCI Contest Rules, Regulations, and Interpretations


TABLE OF CONTENTS



PAGE NO.

DRUM AND BUGLE CORPS CONTEST RULES
1.0 Eligibility ............................................................................................................. 1
2.0 Contest Site ........................................................................................................ 2
3.0 Score Sheets & J udging ..................................................................................... 2-3
3.3 Absent J udge Policies ........................................................................................ 3
3.4 Caption Awards .................................................................................................. 4
4.0 Equipment .......................................................................................................... 5-6
4.8 Electronic Equipment Terminology .................................................................... 7
5.0 Colors & Standards ............................................................................................ 8
6.0 Conduct of Corps ............................................................................................... 8-10
7.0 Rain Policy ......................................................................................................... 11
8.0 Penalties/Rules Errors ....................................................................................... 12
Field Set-Up ............................................................................................................. 13

DRUM AND BUGLE CORPS COMPETITIVE FLAG CODE
1.0 4.0 Purpose ..................................................................................................... 14
5.0 Guard Conduct ................................................................................................... 14-15
6.0 Carriage & Position of National Colors .............................................................. 15
Guidelines for Posting National Colors .................................................................... 16

INDIVIDUAL AND ENSEMBLE CONTEST RULES
1.0 Eligibility ............................................................................................................. 17
2.0 Categories .......................................................................................................... 17-19
3.0 Competition Structure ........................................................................................ 19
4.0 J udging & Score Sheets ..................................................................................... 20
5.0 Equipment .......................................................................................................... 21
6.0 Penalties ............................................................................................................. 21

RULE CHANGE PROCESS
1.1 1.5 Overall Guidelines ..................................................................................... 22
2.1 2.13 Rule Change Process ............................................................................. 23-24
Rule Change Proposal Form ................................................................................ 25




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DCI Contest Rules



Rules


DRUM & BUGLE CORPS CONTEST RULES


1.0 ELIGIBILITY

1.1 Drum and bugle corps composed of members not over 21 years of age shall be permitted to
compete.
Exception: Any member who turns 22 years of age on or after J une 1
st
is eligible to march
during that year.
1.2 No member shall compete with more than one such corps.
1.3 CORPS MEMBERSHIP
1.3.1 World Class - No Corps may compete with more than 150 members on the field of competition
at one time including corps proper, the entire color guard including optional national color squad,
sergeants, majors, etc. Directors and/or drum majors taking part in the contest are subject to
judging and all requirements except timing and boundary penalties.
1.3.2 Open Class - Membership requirements are minimum 30 members and maximum 150
members. Corps membership includes corps proper, the entire color guard including optional
national color squad, sergeants, majors, etc. Directors and/or drum majors taking part in the
contest are subject to judging and all requirements except timing and boundary penalties.
1.4 A unit's national colors may or may not appear on the contest field.
1.5 Corps is defined herein as the entire unit.
1.6 Corps proper is defined herein as any member holding, carrying, and/or playing any musical
instrument or musical implement (see 4.0 Equipment). Members of corps proper grounding
musical equipment are still considered corps proper unless they pick up guard equipment.

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DCI Contest Rules
2.0 CONTEST SITE

2.1 The contest field shall be in the shape of a football field 160 feet wide and 360 feet long, (including
both end zones) with the outside lines and the 50 yard line marked, with visual markers at each
corner and at each end of the 50 yard line. In addition the field shall be lined every 5 yards and
have markers every 5 yards on the front sideline. There shall be a visible X at the center of the
50-yard line and "hash" marks 60 feet from the front and back sidelines on all lines. The same
marking system (equipment, etc.) must be used for the entire contest.
2.2 A minimum of 90 inches is mandatory for the portion of the field behind the backside line boundary
(that space at the backside of the competitive field, which may be used to set up the corps at the
beginning of their performance, as well as to conclude their show off the field. It is desirable,
however, to provide ten (10) yards, as in the case with the end zone portions of the football field.
2.3 The starting line shall be defined as the 160-foot end line to the left and right of the general effect
box and the entire 360-foot back sideline. The finish line shall be defined as the 160-foot end line
to the right of the general effect box and the entire 360-foot back sideline.
2.4 An area fifteen feet deep, known as the staging area (pit) shall be provided in front of the front
sideline (including both end zones). Any equipment may be placed or thrown into this area
immediately prior to or during a corps' performance. Only marching members of the corps (not
staff) may move or place equipment in this area once the performance begins.
2.4.1 Any marching member may move into the pit area from the field of competition or onto the field
of competition from the pit area at any time during the corps' competition.
3.0 SCORE SHEETS AND JUDGING

3.1 JUDGED ELEMENTS
3.1.1 There will be a set of eight sheets, judged from the traditional positions on and off the field.
Using the current sheets, the chief judge shall assign a judge for Visual Effect, Music Effect,
Visual Performance, Ensemble Visual, Color Guard, Brass Performance, Ensemble Music and
Percussion Performance.

3.1.2 There will be a set of ten sheets at Championship and other pre-selected DCI contests, judged
from the traditional positions on and off the field; however, there will be two Effect judges in each
caption. Using the current sheets, the chief judge shall assign - 2 Visual Effect judges, 2 Music
Effect J udges, and judges for Visual Performance, Ensemble Visual, Color Guard, Brass
Performance, Music Ensemble, and Percussion Performance.

In addition, if circumstances dictate because of financial or travel, or some other difficulty, the following
options will be available to the voting membership.


3.1.3 There will be a set of five sheets, each of them judged from the stands or press box. Using the
current sheets, the chief judge shall assign a Visual Effect, Music Effect, Ensemble Visual,
Ensemble Music and a Percussion judge. These judges will work from the most convenient
position(s) off the field. (The percussion judge will utilize the Percussion Performance 2 judges
sheet.)

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DCI Contest Rules
3.2 JUDGES SHEETS
A standing Task Force, comprised of instructors, director liaison, and judge administrator team is
responsible for updating and maintaining the back of the various judges sheets. Changes adopted
by the Task Force will be put in effect and need not pass through the regular rule change process.
Any change adopted will be submitted to the Instructor Caucus sessions for general discussion at
the annual convention. No changes will be implemented after the annual convention, UNLESS
those changes are the result of discussions at the Instructor Caucus of the annual convention. Any
such change must meet the requirements for the printing of the sheets in a timely manner by the
DCI office. No changes will be made to the back of the sheets once the score sheets have been
prepared and, of course, during the season. Should subsequent clarification be necessary
because of any inadvertent error, (i.e. printing etc.) it is the responsibility of the Task Force to
address such issues immediately.
3.3 ABSENT JUDGE POLICY
The chief judge should always try to ensure that a full panel of qualified judges is available for
every contest. However, in the event of a judge not being present for the contest due to illness,
travel difficulties, or any other extenuating circumstance, the following formulas will be applied.
Eight (8) Judge Show
If a visual judge is absent from the panel, the field sheet will not be judged and the ensemble
visual score will be used for the field score as well as for ensemble visual.
If a field brass or percussion judge is absent, the ensemble music score will be used for the
missing field score (brass or percussion) as well as for ensemble music.
If a judge becomes ill part way through a contest and is unable to continue judging, the above
conditions would also apply. All corps will receive the adjusted scores as described above.
Five (5) Judge Show
The caption the absent judge was scheduled to work will not be judged and will be scored as follows.
Add the scores of the 4 judges present.
Divide the results of that addition (total) by eight.
The resulting number will be used for both sub-caption scores of the absent judges.

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DCI Contest Rules

3.4 CAPTION AWARDS.
3.4.1 At World Championships, World Class caption awards will be determined by averaging scores at
Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Finals. At selected Premier Series Events, caption awards will be
determined by averaging the scores of the events that comprise each series.
BEST BRASS - based on Brass Performance (Field) score
BEST PERCUSSION - based on Percussion Performance score
BEST VISUAL - based on Visual Performance (Field) score
BEST COLOR GUARD - based on Color Guard score
BEST GENERAL EFFECT - based on combining Music Effect and Visual Effect scores
The average for each double paneled caption will be used in determining Caption Awards.

3.4.2 At World Championships, caption awards for Open Class Corps will be determined by scores at
the Saturday championship contests.
BEST BRASS - based on Brass Performance (Field) score
BEST PERCUSSION - based on Percussion Performance score
BEST VISUAL - based on Visual Performance (Field) score
BEST COLOR GUARD - based on Color Guard score
BEST GENERAL EFFECT - based on combining Music Effect and Visual Effect scores
The average for each double paneled caption will be used in determining Caption Awards.


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DCI Contest Rules
4.0 EQUIPMENT

4.1 The musical equipment of each corps shall be limited to:

4.2 PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS
4.2.1 All acoustic percussion membrane and keyboard instruments (those not needing electricity to
generate sound) are legal.
4.2.2 Percussion keyboard instruments may use resonators. A self-contained motor that is battery
powered is permitted to be used on vibraphones only. This motor is not to be used for
amplification, but rather to produce a vibrato effect by turning the resonator propellers.
4.3 AMPLIFICATION
4.3.1 Use of Amplification
The instruments known as front percussion, or the pit, can be amplified with the use of
microphones, speakers, mixer boards, and all other necessary electronic equipment. The
amplification of the human voice is also allowed.
The Soundboard can be placed on the field of competition, or in between the front sideline and
the wall of the stadium. The board must be on the field. It cannot be placed in the stands.
The board can be operated by a non-corps member if it is placed outside the field of
competition.
The board cannot be adjusted via remote control. It must be adjusted with the use of a corps
member or a member of the competing corps team. The sound person may or may not,
speak to a corps representative in the stadium, in the stands, and via phone or wireless device.
Battery percussion may not be amplified. Intentional amplification of battery will be awarded a
5-point penalty at the discretion of the contest coordinator. If none is available, the chief judge
may impose this penalty.
Amplification of brass instruments (Soloists and small ensembles of 12 members or less) is
allowed. Amplification of brass instruments may be either wired or wireless.
While power supply will be provided at performance venues, the ultimate responsibility for the
supply of power for any use of amplification rests with the performing units. In the event there is
a power failure, the corps must continue to perform as scheduled and the opportunity for a delay
or do-over is void.
Adaptation to the environment of individual competition locations is the responsibility of the
corps.
4.3.2 Instructions for Tour Event Partners
We require a dedicated electrical outlet providing 110 volts, with at least 15 amperes of current
to be within 50 feet of the sideline 50 yard line of the performance field for our sound
reinforcement systems.
Whoever advances the site should confirm that the power outlet is dedicated and not to be used
with other equipment. This should also be communicated in any conversations with the venue
before the actual performance date. If possible, and at the very minimum, technical personnel
should be available on the day of the actual performance to ensure that your needs are met.

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DCI Contest Rules
4.4 GROUNDING INSTRUMENTS OR EQUIPMENT
4.4.1 Any piece of equipment or instrument may be grounded on the field of competition.
4.4.2 Additionally, any equipment or instrument(s) may be hand propelled into the pit area from the
field of competition or onto the field of competition from the pit area at any time during the
performance.
4.4.3 Any marching member may perform with this equipment or instrument(s).
4.4.4 Any marching member may play this equipment.
4.5 PERCUSSION IMPLEMENTS
4.5.1 All implements (devices used to strike an instrument to produce sound, such as sticks, beaters,
mallets, etc.), are considered legal. Any percussionist may use more than one pair of
implements.

4.6 BUGLE
4.6.1 By the word "Bugle" as used herein is meant a straight bell-front brass instrument pitched in any
key.
4.6.2 The use of mutes is permissible for any bugle.
Note:
J udges have the prerogative to inspect and challenge corps for illegal equipment either before or
after the 11-1/2 minute contest with the permission of the chief judge. Illegal equipment will be
reported by the judge to the contest director or chief judge.
4.7 MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT
4.7.1 No pyrotechnics, discharge of arms, pressurized canisters, flammable liquids, and/or hazardous
materials will be permitted on or around the competition field.
4.7.2 The use of water, or water based materials, is allowed within a drum corps show with the
following exception.
If at any time water, or any material comes in contact with the field, causing damage, pooling of
water, or if the material would in any way alter the condition of the field, a corps would be
penalized no less than .5 and no more than 2.0 points at the discretion of the DCI coordinator or
representative of the evening.
4.7.3 The use of powders or powder like substances is prohibited on or around the competition field.
4.7.4 To prevent damage to the natural grass fields used by DCI for its competitions, the use of
nonporous covering material, (such as plastic, vinyl, etc.) placed in contact with the natural
grass on any competitive field is prohibited.
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DCI Contest Rules
4.8 USE OF ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
4.8.1 Terminology:
Music (or Musical ) shall be defined as the organization of melodic, harmonic and/or
rhythmic sound through time.
An Electronic Instrument shall be defined as any piece of electronic equipment that
produces Musical sound.
A Sequence or Loop shall be defined as Music that is pre-recorded or programmed
during a performance.
Human Voice shall be defined as spoken word.
4.8.2 Music from Electronic Instruments is allowed given that the Music is being performed live, in real
time during the performance.
4.8.3 Sequenced Music will not be allowed.
4.8.4 Musical Loops will not be allowed.
4.8.5 Pre-recorded Sound Effects and Human Voice can be used without penalty. Permission must
be obtained for all copyrighted material.
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DCI Contest Rules
5.0 COLORS AND STANDARDS
The National Colors must be treated with the ultimate respect at all times. They need not be
guarded. They must never be intentionally grounded, thrown, twirled, or be used in any manner that
could be interpreted as disrespectful.
6.0 CONDUCT OF CORPS
6.1 COMPETITION TIMES
The competition times described below pertain to both preliminary and final contests. Preliminary
contest times may be altered by the contest director provided they are pre-announced and not less
than 8-1/2 minutes.
6.1.1 Each World Class corps shall be in competition with its complete competing personnel not less
than 10 or more than 11-1/2 minutes. Each Open Class Corps shall be in competition with its
complete competing personnel not less than 8-1/2 minutes nor more than 11-1/2 minutes.
6.1.2 All playing and maneuvering must cease when the total time reaches 11-1/2 minutes.
6.1.3 No World Class corps member may permanently leave the field prior to 10 minutes (boundary
violations involving first aid cases do not constitute permanently leaving the field). No Open
Class corps member may permanently leave the field prior to 8-1/2 minutes (boundary violations
involving first aid cases do not constitute permanently leaving the field).
6.1.4 A corps may conclude its performance while still on the field.
6.1.5 World Class Corps will be scheduled to compete at seventeen (17) minute intervals. Open
Class corps may be scheduled at sixteen (16) or seventeen (17) minute intervals. Corps will
have 5-minute setup times defined as follows: Entrance time is the initial 2:00 minutes of the
setup time after which the Corps may, at its option, use any part or all of the remaining setup
time (3-minutes) as their warm-up period. This must be prior to the start of competition. The
Corps will not be able to enter the field before the allowed 5-minute set-up time and must exit
the field immediately following the performance with no delay. Any unit creating a delay in the
17-minute schedule will be subject to a penalty which will be pre-announced by the contest
director. The time schedule may be expanded or lessened at the option of the contest director.
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DCI Contest Rules
6.2 TIMING AND JUDGING
6.2.1 Timing and judging will start with the first step of a member of the corps proper or with the first
note of music, whichever occurs first.
6.2.2 Timing and judging will cease with the last note of music played by any marching performer on
the field of competition. A drum tap or cadence is permitted to aid the corps' exit and will not be
judged or included in the timing.
6.3 FIELD ENTRY
6.3.1 Because it is distracting to the competing corps on the field, no cadence of any kind (optional:
"except a voice cadence") will be allowed when entering the competition area.
6.3.2 Members of the corps may set-up anywhere on or off the field prior to the commencement of
timing and judging.
6.3.3 All corps members, except those who have carried or set up stationary percussion equipment,
must enter the competitive arena through the gate or tunnel designated by the contest staff.
Once within the arena, personnel may be staged at any location within said arena behind the
front staging area. Entry for performance may be over the back sideline, through the end zones,
but not over the front sideline.
6.3.4 The zero yard lines and the back sideline may be crossed over by any performer.
6.3.4.1 No performer is allowed forward of the staging area whether through the pit, through the end
zone, or along the track except to place or retrieve equipment or props in a storage area 10
feet in front of the Staging area. Performance of any kind is prohibited in this Storage Area.
6.3.4.2 Performers may not enter any viewing area. They must remain on the stadium field.
6.3.5 Non-competitive, excess, uniformed members must be placed off the competitive area in the
area near the front side of the end zone finish line.
6.3.6 Any obstacles that may be present in specific stadiums are the concern of the individual corps.
DCI takes no responsibility for the removal of these obstacles.

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DCI Contest Rules
6.4 FIELD EXIT
6.4.1 Corps may depart the performance area in any manner but over the front sideline.
6.4.1.1 When leaving the area, corps members must depart through the gate or tunnel designated by
the contest staff.
6.4.2 Once a corps performance concludes, they must proceed from the contest area without delay or
further performance. All drum cadences must cease when the exiting percussion line clears
either the football field end zones or back sidelines.
6.4.3 The contest director may, at his option, allow a cadence while leaving the field and/or "trooping"
of the stands. It is, however, the responsibility of the corps to find out whether a drum cadence
and/or "trooping" of the stands is allowable in each given contest situation.
6.5 FIELD CONDUCT - BOUNDARIES
6.5.1 Any equipment may be retrieved by any member of the corps. The equipment can be placed in
the staging area (15 feet along the front sideline), or anywhere within the stadium back of the
front sideline.
6.5.2 Additionally, equipment or props can be stored, eliminated, retrieved, or moved in an area not
more than 10 feet in front of the staging area front line.
6.5.2.1 The performer may not engage in any type of performance activity until they and the
equipment and/or prop return to the staging area (pit) or competition field. The interpretation
of performance may include but is not limited to manipulating a prop, striking, or playing an
instrument, or any type of body or equipment movement not related to storing, eliminating,
retrieving, and moving equipment or props.
6.5.2.2 Equipment may not be discarded without regard for people or property. No poles, sticks, rifles
or other such equipment may be discarded in a manner that could hurt a spectator, judge, or
other contest official along the front of the field. In the event of such violation, the contest
director would warn the corps of the first violation. Any further violation would result in a .3
penalty per infraction.
6.5.2.3 Any performer stepping over the staging area front line while performing or engaging in a
performance once over the staging area front line will result in a penalty of .1 per infraction up
to a maximum of 2.0 points. For clarification, in order to retrieve or discard equipment, a
performer could reach over the boundary line as long as the performers feet, or any part of the
foot does not cross the line.
6.5.2.4 INTENT --- To allow for easier storage of equipment. Intent is not to allow performance
beyond the established field boundaries.
6.5.3 At the option of the corps, a member of the corps may post the national colors in an inanimate
receptacle located ON the front sideline during the corps "warm up", prior to the corps'
performance. The national colors must be retrieved by a member of the corps prior to the last
member leaving the contest field.
6.5.4 All grounded or dropped equipment must be retrieved before the corps leaves the field.
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DCI Contest Rules
7.0 RAIN, COMPETITION, AND ADJUDICATION
7.1 RAIN OR OTHER LIKELY OR UNLIKELY OCCURRENCES AND THE COMPETITION:
When a show experiences a rain or other situation that causes the competition to be disrupted, the
following procedures should be in effect:
7.2 SHEETS AND TAPES
Every corps that completes their full field performance and thus has a completed evaluation from
the judges panel will receive their score sheets and tapes. This would apply if only one corps
performance is complete or any number of completed performances.
If a corps performance is disrupted and cannot be completed, no scores, sheets, or tapes will be
available for that corps.
7.3 COMPLETE CONTEST DEFINITION
If five or more corps in an event regardless of division complete their performance and thus a full
judges evaluation takes place it will be considered a complete contest. Scores will be announced
and posted. If four or less performances are complete in an event, where more are scheduled to
perform scores will not be made public but score sheets and tapes will be given to the corps.
7.4 CRITIQUE
In the event that the show is cancelled, all corps that performed before the cancellation will receive
a 5 minute critique session even if they were not scheduled for one on that evening. This is
providing a covered protected area away from the fans can be secured. The chief judge will
determine if this is possible and make the final decision.

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DCI Contest Rules
8.0 PENALTIES / RULE ERRORS
8.1 GENERAL
A corps violating any rule, or part of a rule, for which no specific penalty is herein provided, shall
be penalized, for each such violation, not less than 1/10th of a point nor more than disqualification,
at the discretion of the contest director.
8.2 Only the contest director may assess a penalty. J udges must report all rule violations to the
contest director. "Rule Errors" will be noted by the chief judge and tabulated as an execution
caption. These will not be considered, tabulated, or announced as "penalties.
8.3 SECTION 1.0 - (Eligibility)
A corps violating any requirement of section 1.0 shall be disqualified and its position and standing
in the contest shall be forfeited.
8.4 SECTION 4.0 - (Equipment)
A two (2)-point penalty shall be assessed for the use of any illegal equipment, instrument or
implement.
8.5 SECTION 6.0 - (Conduct of Corps)
8.5.1 A corps violating any timing requirements for which no specific penalty is provided shall be
penalized 1/10th of a point for every 3 seconds or fraction thereof, over a maximum or under a
minimum timing requirement.
8.5.2 A corps failing to report to the ready line for competition at the stipulated time shall be penalized
1/2 point for each 1.5 minutes of lateness or part thereof up to the conclusion of the contest.
8.5.3 Any infraction of field entry or field exit rules shall be assessed 1/10th of point rule error for each
member of the corps in violation, per offense, to a maximum of two (2) points for twenty (20)
members or more.
8.5.4 Any infraction of any boundary shall be assessed 1/10th of a point rule error for each member
for each offense to a maximum of two (2) points for twenty (20) members or more.



10
EquipmentStorageArea
0 10 20 30 40 50 40 30 20 10 0
160
60
60
15
30
300
30
Hash Marks
60 feet fromthe front and
back sidelines on ALL
yard lines
Staging Area
Contest Oper. Announcer J udges
Staging Area Line
Staging area line should be painted as drawn: 15 feet from the
front sideline of the football field; end-zone-to-end-zone. All
front markers should be placed on this line as noted.
(0, 25, 50, 25, 0)
Yard Line Markers & Cones
Markers should be placed on the0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 40, 30, 20,
10, 0 and cones should be placed on the 5, 15, 25, 35, 45, 45, 35,
25, 15, 5 of the front sideline Additional cones should be placed at
the 0, 50, 0 of the back sideline.
Equipment Needed
Three (3) tables, set up as shown
1.) Announcer (2 chairs)
2.) Contest Operations (2 chairs)
3.) J udges (3 chairs)
4.) Copier
Field Set-Up
The field is marked the same as a college football field, with the addition of a six-foot (6) X at the center of the 50-yard line.
The X is used as a reference point by the corps while performing.
An additional box is required, extending fifteen (15) feet from the field towards the press box and running to the back of each end zone.
The corps use this area known as the staging area (Pit) to set up their percussion equipment and, from time to time, to march in.
An additional area, up to10 feet in front of the Pit, is allowed to store and retrieve equipment. Performance is prohibited in this area.
0 1 2 3 4 5 4 3 2 1 0
We require a dedicated electrical outlet providing 110
volts, with at least 15 Amperes of current to be within 50
feet of the sideline 50-yard line of the performance
field for our sound reinforcement systems.
Field Microphone
(With dead man switch)
Sufficient cord to move
to 50 - yard line.
2009DrumCorpsInternational
RevisedMay2009
DrawingNotToScale
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DCI Competitive Flag Code

DRUM CORPS INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVE FLAG CODE

1.0 PURPOSE
The purpose of this code is to establish a set of rules and regulations for the use of all contest
committees, regarding the display of the flag of the United States of America, Canada or any country
a uniformed group may represent, hereinafter referred to as the National Colors or National Flag.
2.0 This code confines itself to consideration of the National Colors, when used in competition, and the
relationship of other flags, pennants, banners, guidons, personnel and equipment as defined herein
to the said National Colors. The code is concerned only with the items and/or incidents relative to
flag etiquette in regard to proper respect at all times to the National Colors, and does not concern
itself with the other captions such as Field Visual, General Effect, etc. Use of this code shall not be
authority, either expressed or implied, to violate any national, state, or provincial laws at variance
with it.
3.0 Unless executed (Boy or Girl Scouts in Scouts uniforms) as provided herein, any color guard that is
competitive in nature which exhibits, competes, or appears in any contest, parade or exhibition either
as a prime performer (i.e., color guard contest) or as part of a larger unit (i.e., drum corps, drill team,
etc.) shall be subject to this code.
4.0 VIOLATIONS OF THIS CODE MAY BE NOTED BY ANY REGULARLY ASSIGNED CHIEF JUDGE.
5.0 GUARD CONDUCT
5.1 Any number of National Colors may be carried by a color guard, provided they are properly
guarded. In the case of the U.S. Flag, any number of stars in the Union is permitted; however, the
most recent U.S. Flag shall be carried at the point of honor.
5.2 When a competitive unit is carrying a flag of another nation, it must then follow the code as set
forth by the U.S. Heraldic Branch of the U.S. Army. Detailed information may be obtained from the
Drum Corps International.
5.3 There will be no side-stepping of the National Colors. (This recommendation is made to avoid
controversy over direction of motion and possible "trailing" violations that could arise and
complicate the judge's task). The National Colors will not do "backward march, except that one
step to the rear shall be permitted to retrieve colors.
5.4 Additional flags, if carried, must be carried as flags, to wit: any piece of material carried on a pike,
pole, staff, or otherwise aloft will be considered as a flag, and must show the proper respect to the
National Colors.
5.5 Authorized and Unauthorized Staff Heads: All National Colors Flag staffs must have a staff head.
No National Colors Flag staff should bear any staff head other than a conical spear or those
officially authorized by the Army (eagle, acorn, ball and spear) or by the Navy (gilt star, gilt lance,
gilt ball and flat truck).
15
DCI Competitive Flag Code
5.6 Fringe on the National Colors is permitted, and need not necessarily be gold colored. No
streamer, banner, or other material may be attached to the pike, pole, or finial piece of the U.S.
flag except for the standard cord which may be used, or when black crepe streamers are ordered
by the President of the United States.
5.7 Minimum size of the National Colors is three feet by five feet. Minimum size of all other flags and
banners 2-1/2 x 3 feet. No flag shall be larger than the National Colors.
5.8 Minimum length of swords and/or sabers is 24 inches
5.9 The position of the National Colors, relative to the other flags, should be that no flag is in the
immediate front of the National Colors unless the other flag or flags render the proper salute
(dipping the flag). The immediate front is the infinite path through which the National Colors can
pass safely without contact. This refers to the immediate front of the other flags.
5.10 There will be no flag to the 180-degree front of the National Colors, facing in the same banner
direction (trailing).
5.11 Sections 5.9 and 5.10 notwithstanding, sweeps, flash trails, etc., will be allowed for one (1) count.
5.12 At the option of the corps, a member of the corps may post the National Colors in an inanimate
receptacle located on the front sideline during the corps' performance. The National Colors must
be retrieved by a member of the corps prior to the completion of the corps performance.
Posting of the National Colors must conform to the three basic "Point of Honors" as set forth in the
Flag Code of the United States of America, Public Law 344, 94th Congress, 2
nd
Session J uly 7,
1976.
a) No flag may be higher than the National Colors
b) No flag to the right of the National Colors
c) No flag in front of the National Colors
6.0 CARRIAGE AND POSITION OF THE NATIONAL COLORS
6.1 The National Colors shall at all times be carried aloft and free.
6.2 The National Colors shall never be dipped in any direction, or to any person.
6.3 The bearer of the National Colors, while in possession of the National Colors, shall never engage
in any dance or theatrical steps.
6.4 The National Colors shall never be permitted to touch the ground.
6.5 Flags may be aligned in any order or prominence, provided that the National Colors shall always
be provided with its proper place and accorded the proper respect.
6.6 The National Colors bearer shall not be armed while in possession of the National Colors.
6.7 Headgear is required as part of the uniform for all members of the National Colors Squad.

16
DCI Competitive Flag Code
GUIDELINES FOR POSTING NATIONAL COLORS
(Competitive Flag Code Rule 5.12)
Drum Corps rules now allow a corps to post its National Colors while in competition. There may be no
precedent for posting the National Colors while other flags belonging to the same unit remain unposted.
There are three basic points of honor as set forth in the Flag Code of the United States of America. Public
Law 344, 94th Congress, Second Session J uly 7, 1976 being the latest revision.
1. No flag may be higher than the National Colors
2. No flag to the right of the National Colors
3. No flag in front of the National Colors *
(*) While facing in the same direction
Taking these points one at a time as they apply to posting the National Colors, the following suggestions are
offered:
1. NOT HIGHER: This can be accomplished in two ways, one, use a pike of such length so that when
posted no other unit flag will be higher. Two, by using a posting standard (posting bucket) of such design that
the bottom of the receptacle is above ground level (about waist high). This would allow a unit to use a normal
size pike. Another would be to post a platform.
2. NOT TO THE RIGHT: The direction of the National Colors while posted in a straight-line facing toward
the audience (G.E. Box), from the contest field and parallel with the fifty (50) yard line.
3. NOT IN FRONT: Both the second and third points of honor are judged on the direction of feet of flag
bearers, NOT THE BODY. Care should be taken when using flags to right or in front of the National Colors.
Example of a possible rule error, flag(s) grounded prior to competition along the front sideline when retrieved
by a corps member could be either to the right or in front of the National Colors if not done properly.
The U.S. Flag Code Public Law 344 has yet another rule, which may affect posting. This is found in Section
3(k). "When displayed from a staff (pike) in a church or public auditorium, the flag of the United States of
America (National Colors) should hold the position of superior prominence in advance of the audience, and in
the position of honor at the clergyman's or speakers (corps) right as he faces the (it performs to) audience".
The words placed in parenthesis within this rule are as they could apply to a drum corps.
However, a drum corps is not a speaker or clergyman, in fact nowhere are units like a drum corps mentioned
in the Flag Code and this may allow a setting of precedents. The National Colors, which belongs to the
competing unit, may post anywhere along the front sideline or on the contest field. The posting standard
(posting bucket) can be placed anywhere along the front sideline or on the field. Corps staff or corps member
may if they choose set posting standards on the field, but in doing so, they must comply with all other contest
rules.
Other flags may be posted with the National Colors. All flags being posted and all guards (weapon bearers)
used in posting must salute the National Colors after posting and again just prior to retrieving the National
Colors. Any other corps color guard members, not part of the posting squad (detail), are not required to
salute.
The required salutes of the posting squad (detail) need not be done together or held at one point together.
Weapon bearer(s) can give a hand salute or use a weapon salute.
17
DRUM CORPS INTERNATIONAL
World Championship
INDIVIDUAL AND ENSEMBLE CONTEST RULES

1.0 ELIGIBILITY
1.1 Individual and Ensemble Contestants under the age of 22 years or any contestant who turns 22
years of age on or after J une 1
st
of the current year, shall be permitted to compete.
1.2 All individual and ensemble contestants must be members of a corps that competes in one of the
DCI World Championships week preliminary contests, or must be a member of a corps who has
competed in at least four (4) DCI (includes DCI Atlantic, DCI Central and DCI Pacific Division
competitions) competitions during the current season, or must be the current year's Individual
Champion representative from a DCI recognized drum corps association, or must be a member of
an accredited High School, College or University music program who has qualified at a Drum
Corps International sanctioned Regional Solo and Ensemble Competition.
1.3 An official entry blank, verifying the above qualifications and signed by the corps director or
manager, school principal or band director of the competing unit, which the contestant represents,
must be submitted for each individual or ensemble entrant.
1.4 Any changes, substitutions, or additions to an entry must be approved by the I&E Coordinator prior
to the performance of an ensemble or individual.
2.0 CATEGORIES
2.1 No person shall compete for a unit other than his or her own. Each competitor may participate in
one (1) individual category, and in one (1) Ensemble category (Brass, Percussion, Bass Drum,
Cymbal, Woodwind, or Visual Ensemble) and in one (1) Mixed Ensemble.
2.2 In the Individual Brass, Individual Woodwind, Individual Percussion, and Individual Visual captions
- Three (3) individuals in each individual category from each contending unit will be allowed to
compete.
2.2.1 The Individual Brass categories are Trumpet, Mellophone, French horn, Baritone, Trombone,
and Tuba. Piccolo Trumpet and Flugelhorn instruments will compete in the Trumpet category.
Euphonium instruments will compete in the Baritone category. All traditional marching brass
instruments whether bell front or not will be permitted to compete in the stated categories.
2.2.2 The Individual Percussion categories are: Snare Drum; Multiple Tenor Drum; Percussion
Keyboard; Timpani and Multiple Percussion (any number of percussion instruments played by a
solo performer. This includes a drum set).

18
2.2.2.1 A performer entered in any of the Individual Percussion categories, with the exception of the
Multiple Percussion category, may only perform on the one (1) percussion instrument that is
specified in the category title. A group of tenor drums fastened to one (1) holding apparatus
or a set of Timpani are considered one (1) percussion instrument. No auxiliary instruments,
such as suspended cymbals, cowbells, woodblocks, etc., are permitted in any Individual
Percussion category, except the Multiple Percussion category. The use of any auxiliary
instrument in any Individual Percussion category, other than the Multiple Percussion category,
will be considered as using an illegal instrument and will be penalized in accordance with the
rules.
2.2.3 The Individual Woodwind categories are Saxophone, Clarinet, and Flute. Double reed
instruments will compete in the Clarinet category and Piccolos will compete in the Flute
category.
2.2.4 The Visual categories are Individual Flag, Flag Ensemble, Individual Auxiliary Equipment,
Auxiliary Equipment Ensemble, Dance, and Dance Ensemble. The Auxiliary Equipment
categories include any visual equipment other than flags, such as rifles, sabers, streamers,
balls, fans, etc.
2.2.4.1 A performer entered in the Flag categories may only utilize flags, although more than one (1)
flag may be used. A flag is defined as any material attached to a pike, pole, rod, or staff other
than an authorized weapon and used as a flag, with a minimum size of 8" x 12". National
Colors must be 3' x 5'. Flagpoles must be at least 24" in length (curved and straight poles are
acceptable; however, complete circles, squares, etc., to which material is attached are NOT
flags).
2.2.4.2 A performer entered in the Auxiliary Equipment categories may utilize one (1) or more pieces
of any auxiliary equipment other than flags. This equipment may be used in any combination,
such as two (2) rifles, a rifle and a saber, a streamer and a ball, two (2) fans, etc. A performer
utilizing a flag and another piece of equipment, other than a flag, will be entered in the
Auxiliary Equipment categories.
2.2.4.3 Visual contestants may perform with pre-recorded musical or audible accompaniment. Each
contestant is responsible for providing the playback equipment that will be used during the
performance. It is recommended that the playback equipment be easy to set-up and be able
to generate power from batteries. Contestants may utilize electrical current, if it is available.
2.2.4.4 The performance area for Individual and Ensemble Visual contestants shall be approximately
20' x 20'. However, because the performance site varies yearly, it is the responsibility of the
performer to confirm the size of the performance area with the I&E contest chairman.
Because of time and space constraints, scenery is not permitted.
2.3 Brass Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble and Woodwind Ensemble - Two (2) Brass Ensembles
and two (2) Percussion Ensembles, and two (2) Woodwind Ensembles from each eligible unit, will
be allowed to compete.
2.3.1 A minimum of two (2) and a maximum of ten (10) players may be utilized in any one Brass
Ensemble, a minimum of two (2) and a maximum of ten (10) in any Woodwind Ensemble, and a
minimum of two (2) and a maximum of twelve (12) in any one Percussion Ensemble.
19
2.4 Bass Drum Ensemble and Cymbal Ensemble - One (1) Bass Drum Ensemble and one (1) Cymbal
Ensemble, from each eligible unit will be allowed to compete. A minimum of two (2) and a
maximum of eight (8) players may be utilized in any one (1) Bass Drum or Cymbal Ensemble.
2.5 Mixed Ensemble - One (1) Mixed Ensemble may be entered from each eligible unit. A mixed
ensemble is any combination of all instrument categories and may consist of a minimum of four (4)
players and a maximum of fifteen (15) players.
2.6 Visual Ensembles One (1) Flag Ensemble and one (1) Auxiliary Ensemble and one (1) Dance
Ensemble from each eligible unit will be allowed to compete. A minimum of two (2) and a
maximum of six (6) performers may be utilized in any one (1) Visual Ensemble.
2.7 Vibraphones are not considered electronic equipment and as such, vibraphone motors may be
powered by a self-contained battery unit or by plugging the power cord that attaches to the motor
into an electrical outlet if available.
2.8 Conductors for ensemble competitors are permitted, providing the conductor is a competing
member of the unit. Conductors will be counted as part of the ensemble complement.
3.0 COMPETITION STRUCTURE
3.1 Contestants must check in with the contest representative at the performance site or room at least
ten (10) minutes before their performance time.
3.2 During the preliminary competition, individual competitors will be scheduled at six (6) minute
intervals and ensemble competitors will be scheduled at eight (8) minute intervals.
3.3 Competitors may not enter their respective performing area until after the previous performance is
completed and the previous contestant has left the performing area.
3.4 Each entrant shall perform a piece of their choosing which may not be less than 150 seconds
(2:30) nor more than 240 seconds (4:00). No other performance is required.
3.5 Any unjudged, one minute warm-up prior to the performance of the piece is optional. If a warm-up
is played, the contestant should face away from the audience and judge, if possible.
3.6 It is recommended that a copy of the music be given to the music judge (two (2) copies for
ensembles), although it is not required.
3.7 Performances in each category are limited to the area designated by the I&E contest director.
3.8 Contestants shall await a signal from the judges before starting competition


20
4.0 JUDGING AND SCORE SHEETS
4.1 All timing and judging shall start with the first note of music and will end with the completion of
music.
4.2 One judge will be utilized to adjudicate each of the following categories in the preliminary
competition: Trumpet, Mellophone, French Horn, Baritone, Trombone, Tuba, Brass Ensemble,
Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Woodwind Ensemble, Flag, Flag Ensemble, Auxiliary Equipment,
Auxiliary Equipment Ensemble, Dance, Dance Ensemble, Snare Drum, Multiple Tenor Drum,
Percussion Keyboard, Timpani, Multiple Percussion, Percussion Ensemble, Bass Drum Ensemble,
and Cymbal Ensemble.
4.3 The category of Mixed Ensemble will be adjudicated by two (2) judges - one (1) Wind and one (1)
Percussion. Their scores will be averaged. Should there be an I&E Finals competition, two (2)
Wind Ensemble judges, and two (2) Percussion Ensemble judges will be utilized to adjudicate the
category of Mixed Ensemble, and their scores will be averaged. One (1) judge shall act as timer.
4.4 Each judge shall also act as timer. Should there be an I&E Finals competition, two (2) judges will
be utilized to adjudicate each of the above captions and their scores will be averaged. One (1)
judge from each pair shall act as timer.
4.5 All scoring, other than penalties, will be done on an evaluation, build-up basis.
Brass, Percussion, and Woodwind contestants shall be judged as follows:
Excellence 100 points
Effect 100 points
Subtotal 200 points divided by 2 = Total score
Visual contestants shall be judged as follows:
Repertoire/Composition 100 points
Performance/Showmanship 100 points
Subtotal 200 points divided by 2 = Total score
21
5.0 EQUIPMENT
5.1 All equipment shall be consistent with the rules established for drum corps, unless specifically
provided for within the Individual and Ensemble Contest Rules.
5.2 Any instrument or equipment may be grounded or carried during a performance.
5.3 Brass contestants may use mutes.
6.0 PENALTIES
6.1 A competitor violating any requirement of section 1.0 shall be disqualified and his position in the
contest shall be forfeited.
6.2 A 1/10th of a point penalty shall be assessed for each three (3) seconds of overtime or under time
for all performances.
6.3 A performer failing to report for competition at the stipulated time shall be penalized 1/2 of a point
for each fifteen (15) minutes of lateness or part thereof, up to the conclusion of the contest.
Should extreme circumstances prevent the performer from reporting on time, the I&E contest
director will determine the amount of the penalty, if any, to be assessed.
6.4 A minimum of five (5) points in penalty will be assessed for the use of any illegal equipment or
instrument.
6.5 A competitor violating any rule, or part of a rule, for which no specific penalty is herein provided,
shall be penalized for each such violation not less than 1/10th of a point nor more than
disqualification.
6.6 Only the I&E contest director may assess a penalty. J udges and/or tabulators must report all rule
violations to the I&E contest director.
6.7 All penalties will be subtracted from the FINAL score (or averaged score of pairs of judges).
6.8 There will be no penalty for each piece of dropped equipment or uniform. Equipment or uniform
items may be deliberately grounded without penalty.
6.9 Retrieval of dropped equipment or uniform items may be done only by the performer during the
performance. There is no penalty for retrieval of dropped equipment or uniform items.
6.10 All performers and staffs will be subject to the DCI Code of Conduct, currently in effect, the day of
the I&E Competition.









Revised (021889) (033189) (032290) (040194) (060100) (032101) (041504) (013005)(032507)

22


DRUM CORPS INTERNATIONAL
RULES CHANGE PROCESS


OVERALL GUIDELINES
The formalized Rules Proposal Form is the only tool of choice for rules change proposals.
1.1 Any instructional member or corps director of an active drum corps (must have competed in a DCI
sanctioned show) the previous summer or an active judge of a DCI accredited judging association
may submit a rules proposal for review by the Rules Committee.
1.2 The completed Rules Proposal Form must be signed by the sponsoring corps director or judging
caption head.
1.3 Rules change proposals may be submitted reviewed and voted on annually. If a proposal is
defeated at the J udges/Instructors caucus, it cannot be re-submitted for another two years from
original date of submittal. The Rules Committee may override this wait period.
1.4 Rules Change Proposals that are adopted which require judging field trials/judging system
modifications shall be referred to the J udges/instructors Task Force for implementation and trial.
These changes are subject to a new vote of adoption upon full evaluation by the task force. System
changes may be submitted at the Instructor/J udges meeting in J anuary for referral to the task force
for a possible trial period during the summer. Any system changes will require a vote of adoption at
the caucus following the trial period. Upon a successful vote, the change will then go to a vote of the
DCI Board of Directors.
1.5 The Rules Committee make up shall include One (1) J udge Administrator, One (1) member from the
DCI Task Force elected by the Task Force, Five (5) additional members appointed by the Chairman
of the Board of DCI selected from current Directors, Instructors and J udges. Each position will be
selected by February 1
st
annually.


23
DCI RULES CHANGE PROCESS
THE PROCESS
2.1 J une 1 Rule Proposal form is mailed out to all corps and judges who will participate in the coming
summer DCI tour.
2.2 J uly Rule Proposal form is handed out to all in attendance at the last DCI Regional meeting.
2.3 September 15 Deadline for submitting Rule Change Proposals. The Rules Committee chairperson
is responsible to receive all proposals, review for completeness (this portion is clerical are all
applicable questions answered, etc.) and prepare for distribution to the Rules Committee members.
Incomplete proposals will be immediately returned to the proposer without any further review. Each
proposal will be assigned to an individual member of the Rules committee to ensure that all
questions/challenges are answered. This coordinator would contact the new rule proposer for any
additional clarifications/information.
2.4 October 1 Rule coordinators will contact committees of DCI (ex Finance, marketing, promoters
task force, etc) for input on rule proposals. Rules Chairperson mails all rules proposals to DCI Task
Force.
2.5 November 1 Task Force discusses and submits written opinion (including suggested
implementation time line) on rule proposals to Rules Committee Chairperson who distributes
opinions to appropriate coordinators.
2.6 November 15 Coordinators contact submitters with opinions of committees for changes and/or
modifications of their rule proposals.
2.7 December 1 Rules Committee Coordinators return all assigned proposals along with research
report and attachments to Chairperson. All complete proposals and attachments to be mailed out to
the Rules Committee members for review.
2.8 December 8 The Rules Committee compiles opinions on the proposals for potential impact to the
judges/judging system, logistics at shows/for sponsors, operational changes/DCI office and a
recommended time frame/implementation plan. Rules proposals may be rejected by the committee
on the basis of insufficient data/research or lack of clarity/definition to the proposal. This is to be
used as a sanity checkpoint for the proposed rule change.
2.9 December 15 All reviewed/approved proposals to be distributed to judges, corps, directors, and
instructional staff members for their review.

24
DCI RULES CHANGE PROCESS
2.10 Winter Instructor College The task force will be responsible for leading the discussion, debate, &
voting in the caption caucus meetings for advancement to the full instructor caucus. Each drum
corps who competed in the previous summers DCI tour in attendance will have one vote per caption
in the caucus meetings.
2.11 The Rules Committee will be responsible for leading the discussion, debate & voting in the full
instructor caucus. At this final meeting of the college a vote will be taken by one member of each
DCI member corps and each DCI Open Class grand finalist corps to determine if the proposal shall
be passed on to the Board of Directors. A simple majority vote of qualified votes at the college will
pass the proposal on to a vote of the Board of Directors.
2.12 Winter Board of Directors Meeting The Rules Committee will be responsible for leading the
discussion, debate & voting in the Board of Directors Meeting. Minutes and votes of the caption
caucus meetings, the full instructor caucus, all attachments from DCI committees and final rule
proposals will be available for the Board of Directors.
2.13 Those proposals receiving a favorable majority vote of the Board of Directors will be scheduled for
implementation based upon the recommended time frame/process as previously determined by the
Rules Committee. A rule will be passed by a simple majority vote of the Board of Directors.
25
DRUM CORPS INTERNATIONAL
RULES PROPOSAL FORM
This form must be filled out thoroughly and succinctly. All critical information should be
included to maximize the understanding of the rule and its consequences by all involved in
the rule adoption process. This form should stand on its own as a summary of your proposal.
Incomplete forms will be returned. If you wish to attach further supporting information, you
may enclose attachments.


TITLE OF PROPOSED CHANGE:

DESCRIPTION:
PURPOSE: (Why make this change-what are the benefits?)
EDUCATIONAL IMPACT: (How does this benefit the students educationally?)
CREATIVE IMPACT: (How does this affect the creative aspects of the acti vity? How does this affect
designers/instructors?)
FISCAL IMPACT: (How does this financially affect indi vidual corps and the DCI organization?)
AUDIENCE IMPACT: (How will this affect our audience and their perceptions of the acti vity?)
SHOW PROMOTER IMPACT: (How will this affect the show promoters-financiall y and logisticall y as it relates to
contest production?)
LOGISTICS IMPACT: (How will this impact the operations of the indi vidual drum corps and the DCI organization?)
JUDGING IMPACT: (How does this impact the adjudication process and indi vidual judge?)


Submitted by:


Address:


Phone:


E-Mail:

Corps:



Director's Signature



J udge / Caption Head Signature

Representing: