I asked the following question about 5 years to the Texas state NFHS rule's interpreter concerning artificial noise makers. I hope this helps.
What are the rules for the use of noise makers within the dugout. I have seen and heard drum sticks beating on fence, roof, cans, ball drums, etc. Also stones in a water bottle, hands beating on fence and ceiling. Please explain the TASO and UIL noise rules from the dugout.
Thanks for the question. I know of nothing in the rule book that addresses this issue specifically. TASO does not delve into this area. UIL does not restrict noise making by the teams. Most all teams competing in the state championship tournament utilize noise makers. All of that being said, districts can establish their own rules addressing noise making and the use of noise makers which officials should enforce when officiating those district games. Absent that, there is no specific rule that an umpire can fall back on. My experience is that most teams use chanting and/or rhythmic noise which we allow. However, you should not allow teams to make sudden noises that would distract or startle a batter or pitcher. (Example. There is no noise being made, but when the pitcher is about to pitch or when the batter is about to swing, a sudden loud noise is made.) Additionally, I would not allow excessively loud noise makers, i.e. bullhorns or air horns....in the dugouts or in the stands. In these instances you can use Rule 3-6-13 c. which addresses unsporting acts or Rule 10.2.3 g. which allows the plate umpire to make decisions on points not covered by the rules. I hope this is helpful.
What are the rules for the use of noise makers within the dugout. I have seen and heard drum sticks beating on fence, roof, cans, ball drums, etc. Also stones in a water bottle, hands beating on fence and ceiling. Please explain the TASO and UIL noise rules from the dugout.
Thanks for the question. I know of nothing in the rule book that addresses this issue specifically. TASO does not delve into this area. UIL does not restrict noise making by the teams. Most all teams competing in the state championship tournament utilize noise makers. All of that being said, districts can establish their own rules addressing noise making and the use of noise makers which officials should enforce when officiating those district games. Absent that, there is no specific rule that an umpire can fall back on. My experience is that most teams use chanting and/or rhythmic noise which we allow. However, you should not allow teams to make sudden noises that would distract or startle a batter or pitcher. (Example. There is no noise being made, but when the pitcher is about to pitch or when the batter is about to swing, a sudden loud noise is made.) Additionally, I would not allow excessively loud noise makers, i.e. bullhorns or air horns....in the dugouts or in the stands. In these instances you can use Rule 3-6-13 c. which addresses unsporting acts or Rule 10.2.3 g. which allows the plate umpire to make decisions on points not covered by the rules. I hope this is helpful.