Written by Peter Pearsall/Photo used courtesy of Adobe Stock

Areas considered ecologically sensitive—including lands within the National Wildlife Refuge System, which can host threatened or endangered species—can be disproportionately affected by drone flights. Thus, launching, landing, or disturbing wildlife by uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), also known as drones, on National Wildlife Refuges is prohibited. 

General Tips for Responsible Drone Use 

The public’s use of drones has become immensely popular and versatile, allowing users to obtain unparalleled views of landscapes and wildlife. Drones possess enormous potential in any number of scientific applications, but wildlife can be extremely sensitive to drone use. Follow these tips for responsible UAS conduct, and remember: Recreational use of uncrewed aircraft is prohibited at National Wildlife Refuges. 

Know where to fly 

• UAS operators should not rely solely on applications such as AirMap, DJI Go or B4UFly to determine if a location is legal for UAS use. Such applications do not always capture accurate locations of public lands where UAS use is prohibited. The use of UAS on or from Refuge-administered lands for the purpose of taking commercial photography requires a permit in accordance with 43 CFR 5.1-12 
• Individuals and organizations may fly UAS for hobby or recreational purposes in compliance with FAA unmanned aircraft system laws.  
• Be sure to fly your UAS below 400 feet and remain clear of surrounding obstacles. 
• UAS are considered to be both “motorized equipment” and “mechanical transport” 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.  You can search the FAA website for current TFRs. 

Protect Wildlife & the Environment 

• Do not fly over or near wildlife as this can create stress that may cause significant harm, and even death. 
• Pursuit, harassment, or an intentional disturbance of animals during breeding, nesting, rearing of young, or other critical life history functions is prohibited.  
• Follow state wildlife and fish agency regulations on the use of UAS to search for or detect wildlife and fish.  
• Launch and operate the UAS more than 100 meters (328 feet) from wildlife.  Never approach animals or birds vertically with the UAS.  

Fly safely, Stay in control 

• Keep your UAS within your visual line of sight at all times. 
• Take lessons and learn to operate your UAS safely. 
• Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations. 
• Fly your UAS at least 5 miles from an airport or backcountry airstrip. 
• Keep your UAS away from populated and noise-sensitive areas, such as campgrounds, trail heads, and visitor centers. 
• Obey all privacy laws. 

Follow Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines 

• The FAA has authority over all airspace.  Ensure that you comply with all FAA regulations and guidance for flying your UAS. Learn more about FAA regulations. 
• Do not fly any aircraft weighing more than 55 pounds (total weight, including payload and fuel source). Any UAS that weighs more than 55 pounds is subject to additional regulations and flight restrictions.