What Is A Prefecture?

The Tripoli Rocketry Association is made up of "Prefectures". These are local groups geographically, that organizes meetings, events and launches for the benefits of their members and those from other prefectures.

A Prefecture is a self-governing group of rocketry enthusiasts in a specific area of the country. This may be a club, a society, or just a group. There must be at least three people to be designated a Prefecture, and the Prefecture shall support by membership, and uphold by actions, the goals and future of the Tripoli Rocketry Association, Inc. Its activities will not be controlled by the National Association except in the compliance of the Association's Safety Code.

What is the Purpose of a Prefecture?

As everyone knows it is a lot more enjoyable to fly with a group of friends, than to Lone Ranger it on your own. Prefectures are a way to expand one's assets and abilities. Yes, we all have friends who can do things for each other, but with a unified group it makes one's involvement with others more personal and satisfying. If you already have a group or club, or wish to form one dedicated to Advanced Rocketry, contact Tripoli headquarters today. The Tripoli Rocketry Association will be happy to supply you with a list of Tripoli members in your area.

Tripoli has seen significant growth. This is due in part to the growth in the number of Prefectures. A Prefecture is a club or group of Tripoli members that serves a given geographic area.

What is a Prefect?



Since the Prefect is the leader of the Prefecture, this individual must have knowledge of the rules of the Tripoli Rocketry Association, understand the proper operation of a safe rocket flying environment and have an understanding of the laws and regulations regarding High Power Rocketry (HPR).

One of the functions of the Prefecture is to assist new members in receiving their HPR certifications. The Prefect performs certifications and can bestow level 1 and level 2 certifications and administer the level 2 certification examination. Note: Level 3 certifications can only be performed by Tripoli Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) members.

Members are advised to review the Range Safety Guidelines to understand the various roles that the Prefect may play.  In large Prefectures, some of the duties may be handled by other administrative members (e.g. President, VP, etc).

How are Prefectures named?


How Do You Start A New Prefecture?

To form a new Prefecture requires a minimum of three active Tripoli members, one of which must meet the minimum requirements of a Prefect and will serve in that capacity.  One of the other members must act as secretary and will be required to conduct an annual Prefect election.  A prefecture also must renew every year, beginning in January and is required to submit an annual fee.

Additionally, the Prefecture must serve a unique geographic area that is not already served by an existing Prefecture (i.e. two prefectures would not be set up in the same city). If these requirements are met, then a request must be made to Tripoli Headquarters for processing and approval by the Tripoli Board of directors.

Are there any costs associated with a Prefecture?

There is an annual fee of $10 USD to be paid along with the annual notification of the prefectures election results, generally this is due in January of each calendar year.  If a new prefecture the fee is due when the Prefecture is approved.

Can we have more than one Prefect?

No, however the Prefect can delegate his certification authority for specific launch events up to a maximum of 5 days should they be unable to attend.  The delegation form and conditions may be found here.

When can Prefecture elections be held?

These can occur at any time, should the current Prefect no longer wish to serve or the members of the Prefecture decide an election is required.

What process for the Prefecture election do we follow?

The process followed is up to each Prefecture to decide, however it should be seen to be open and fair.  The Prefecture Secretary is responsible for reporting the result to Tripoli Headquarters.

Can I submit my prefecture renewal materials by email?
Yes, scan (no more than 300 DPI is sufficient) and email to HQ.