High-power rocketry is a hobby similar to model rocketry. The major difference is that higher impulse range motors are used. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) definition of a high-power rocket is one that has a total weight of more than 1500 grams and contains a motor or motors containing more than 125 grams of propellant and/or rated at more than 160 Newton-seconds of total impulse, or that uses a motor with an average thrust of 80 newtons or more.
High-power rockets are defined as rockets flown using commercially available motors ranging from H to O class. In the U.S., the NFPA1122 standard dictates guidelines for model rocketry, while NFPA1127 is specific to high-power rockets. In most U.S. states NFPA1122 has been adopted as part of the legal code. A smaller number of states use NFPA1127.
The Tripoli Rocketry Association and the National Association of Rocketry are the major sanctioning bodies for the hobby in the USA, providing member certifications, and criteria for general safety guidelines.
In most other countries, where HPR is supported, the regulations are similar to or derived from the Tripoli Rocket Association Safety Code and the NAR High-power Certification system.
In Australia, there are three nationwide HPR organizations. The Australian Model Rocket Society Inc. is the premiere representative body for rocketry which advocates for its various member groups and exists to serve the broader rocketry community. The Australian Rocketry Association has ten clubs with launch sites in the Australian Capital Territory, South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, and Victoria. The Tripoli Rocketry Association has four prefectures in Australia, with launch sites in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia.
In Canada, the Canadian Association of Rocketry - L'Association Canadienne De Fuséologie is appointed as regulator for the hobby.
In New Zealand, the controlling body for rocketry is the New Zealand Rocketry Association or NZRA