Iowa Approves Legislation Safeguarding Racetracks from Upset Residents

      Iowa Speedway

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      It's a common scenario: new residents move in next to a racetrack, voice complaints about the noise, and the facility must struggle to defend itself. We've covered similar situations in California, Colorado, and other locations, but Iowa should be safe from such issues once House Bill 645 is enacted on July 1, 2025. This new law protects motorsport venues from legal claims related to noise and nuisance, provided the venues were established before the neighbors built or acquired their properties.

      In essence, if the racetrack was there first, the newcomers can't sue them into financial trouble over noise or dust.

      Iowa's legislature, including both the state senate and house of representatives, passed HB645 unanimously. Following their votes, several officials expressed their support, with Senator Cherilynn Westrich highlighting, “Some Iowa race tracks are encountering problems due to housing developments being constructed around them, and they could currently face nuisance claims regarding sound, light, and other issues, even though the track was established first and complies with standard industry operating procedures.” The bill is now awaiting Governor Kim Reynolds' signature.

      Unsurprisingly, the Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) and the Performance Racing Industry group backed the bill.

      “Iowa’s race tracks are not merely entertainment venues; they are vital economic drivers that support local businesses, create jobs, and generate significant revenue for the state,” noted PRI in a press release. “This legal protection is crucial for the continued operation and growth of these facilities.”

      Iowa Speedway in Newton hosts major events such as NASCAR’s Cup and Xfinity Series and IndyCar, but it is not Iowa's only racetrack. There are many short ovals—both dirt and paved—where racers compete on weekends. However, HB645 is especially important for these smaller venues that foster grassroots motorsport and support local businesses.

      It's important to highlight that this legislation grants immunity to racetracks regardless of which property owner was there first, as long as the track was in place before the neighbor moved in. This means that if a track changes ownership but the same neighbor has been considering legal action for 20 years, they cannot proceed as long as the racing facility predated their arrival. In this way, HB645 appears to offer robust protection for these venues.

      I will be monitoring similar legislation in other states as motorsport enthusiasts continue to advocate for both large and small tracks throughout the country.

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