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Race Day Safety & Code of Conduct

Important rules and safety information from the Houston Marathon Committee to ensure a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for all participants, volunteers, and spectators.

Safety & Security

Safety is our top priority. We work closely with local public safety agencies to ensure a safe and secure race weekend. Please review these important reminders:

  • Packet Pick-Up
    • Government-issued photo ID required
    • No ID needed for children 17 & under
    • Each runner may pick up one additional packet only
  • Baggage Inspection / Gear Check
    • All bags are subject to search
    • Only race-issued clear Gear Check bags allowed
    • Clear bags containing other bags will not be accepted
    • Bags must be checked inside the GRB on race day
  • Start Corrals
    • No bags allowed in start corrals or on the course
    • Hydration systems (Camelbacks, etc.) are permitted
  • Running Etiquette
    • Do not run more than 3 abreast
    • Do not stop abruptly
    • Headphones discouraged
  • Course Time Limits
    • Streets reopen on a rolling schedule
    • Runners behind pace will be directed to SAG transport
  • Mobile Devices
    • Do not stop suddenly to take photos
    • No selfie sticks allowed
  • Medical Emergencies
    • Assist distressed runners and alert race officials
    • Call 911 for urgent situations
    • Learn Hands-Only CPR on our website
  • See Something, Say Something
    • Report suspicious behavior immediately to a race official, uniformed officer, or call 911

ESSENTIAL EVENT RESOURCES FOR IMPORTANT RACE UPDATES:

  • Download the Chevron Houston Marathon mobile app and click “Ok” to receive notifications. Push notifications may be sent out with important race alerts.
  • Follow the Chevron Houston Marathon on Instagram and Facebook.
  • Visit the HoustonMarathon.com website.
  • Tune to Channel 13 (ABC13) or espn3.com on race day from 6:30 – 10 a.m.
  • Visit abc13.com on race day, beginning at 6:30 a.m., to watch a live stream of the elite race and the finish-line cameras.

In case of an emergency, the above resources will be the best places to receive the latest information about the event.

Prohibited Items/Actions List

Weapons of Any kind
  • Firearms: The carrying of firearms is prohibited at race weekend-sanctioned events. In addition, firearms are explicitly prohibited in Discovery Green and in the George R. Brown Convention Center in race weekend licensed areas, which include, but are not limited to, the EXPO and all race day areas.
    • Please note: There are many venues used throughout race weekend that have their own rules and regulations regarding the carrying of firearms and other items; these rules are beyond the control of the HMC.
  • Knives, including, but not limited to: swords, spears, daggers, sabers, bowie knives, any knife with a blade, and machetes.
  • In addition, any item that could be considered dangerous, including, but not limited to: mace, tasers, knives, bats, tools, and sharp objects.
Bags
  • Only the official clear bag provided at Packet Pick-Up/EXPO will be accepted at Gear Check on race day.
  • No bags of any kind will be allowed in the start corrals or on the course. Hydration packs are permitted.
  • Except as is provided in this section, bringing bags of any type is discouraged.
  • All bags are subject to search.
Miscellaneous Items
  • Costumes that cover the face and any bulky costumes that extend beyond the body, except masks worn for health purposes (i.e., surgical masks)
  • Unmanned aircraft systems, drones, and mini-copters for photography
    • Taking off and flying over any part of the course is a violation of HMC-controlled property and will be considered trespassing. In addition, all photographs and video recordings of the event are considered property of the HMC.
  • Selfie sticks and other hand-held extension poles for cameras and mobile devices that are not attached directly to the user
  • Flammable liquids, fuel, fireworks, flare guns, explosives
  • Illegal substances of any kind
  • Animals, including pets
  • Glass containers
  • Coolers
  • Headphones – The HMC highly discourages the use of headphones on the race courses. If you are wearing headphones, make sure you can hear what is going on around you and be aware that emergency vehicles may be on the course at any time.
  • Strollers, bicycles, roller blades/skates, skateboards, wheelbarrows, and wagons
    • Any item with wheels, beyond what is allowed in the Athletes with Disabilities division of the events
  • Props and anything that may pose a tripping or safety hazard, or may divert the attention of a runner from the road or other runners on the course
    • Examples include signs, sports equipment, and oversized flags or flagpoles
  • All participants are subject to the USATF and World Athletics Competition Rules.
Bandit Runners
  • Only registered runners wearing their personally assigned bibs may participate in the Chevron Houston Marathon, Aramco Houston Half Marathon, and We Are Houston 5K.
  • No one is permitted to be on the race courses without an official race bib for the event in which they have been registered.
    • In addition, registered participants are prohibited from crossing the finish line with anyone who is not wearing an official race bib, including children.
  • The Houston Marathon does NOT allow the transfer of registrations/bibs to others.
  • Registered runners who give their bib to another person, and the person to whom the bib is given, will be disqualified and prohibited from participating in subsequent Houston Marathon events for a minimum of two years.

*THE HOUSTON MARATHON COMMITTEE, INC. RESERVES THE RIGHT TO PROHIBIT ADDITIONAL ITEMS/ACTIONS IN ORDER TO PRESERVE THE SAFETY OF OUR EVENTS AND PARTICIPANTS. PARTICIPANTS WHO VIOLATE THE ABOVE RULES MAY BE DISQUALIFIED AND BANNED FROM PARTICIPATING IN FUTURE EVENTS.

About the Houston Marathon Committee

The Houston Marathon Committee is dedicated to promoting health, fitness, and community spirit through exceptional running events, including the annual Houston Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K. Our committee is composed of passionate volunteers and experienced professionals who work tirelessly to create a welcoming environment for participants of all ages and abilities. We strive to celebrate the vibrant culture of Houston while supporting local charities and fostering a sense of camaraderie among runners.

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