Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or “Drones”

Drones and Wildfires

Flying drones within or near wildfires without permission could cause injury or death to firefighters, and hamper their ability to protect lives, property and natural resources. Drones pose a risk to pilots and aircraft flying at low altitude, and could result in major damage and potential injuries to the pilot and crew on board. Drones have caused helicopters and air tankers to be grounded because pilots can’t communicate with drone operators. For the safety of the pilots and crew, air operations have been halted until it can be confirmed the devices have left the area.

Flying a drone near a wildfire is breaking the law. Per the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 43 CFR 9212.1 (f), it is illegal to resist or interfere with the efforts of firefighter(s) to extinguish a fire. Doing so can result in a significant fine and/or a mandatory court appearance. So, be smart and just don’t fly your drone anywhere near a wildfire. No amount of video or photos are worth the consequences.

Useful Links

Recreational Drone Tips

The following tips are for responsible hobby or recreational use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or “Drones” on National Forest System Lands. Per the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, 43 CFR 9212.1 (f), it is illegal to resist or interfere with the efforts of firefighter(s) to extinguish a fire. Doing so can result in a significant fine and/or a mandatory court appearance. So, be smart and just don’t fly your drone anywhere near a wildfire. No amount of video or photos are worth the consequences.

Know Where To Fly

Individuals and organizations may fly UAS for hobby or recreational purposes in compliance with http://www.faa.gov/uas/model_aircraft/ (Section 336 of Public Law 112-95).
UAS must be flown below 400 feet and remain clear of surrounding obstacles.
UAS are considered to be both “motorized equipment” and “mechanical transport” and, as such, they cannot take off from, land in, or be operated from congressionally designated wilderness areas.
UAS are not permitted to fly in areas that have Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) in place, such as wildfires. Search the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Web site for current TFRs.

Follow FAA guidelines

Ensure that you comply with all FAA regulations and guidance for flying your UAS. The FAA has authority over all airspace.
Do not fly any aircraft weighing more than 55 pounds (total weight, including payload and fuel source).