If you’re a drone enthusiast eager to capture breathtaking views of America’s stunning National Parks, you may be wondering: Are drones allowed in national parks in the U.S.? Unfortunately, the short answer is no.

Flying drones is prohibited in all U.S. national parks. Under Policy Memorandum 14-05, released by the National Park Service (NPS) director in June 2014, superintendents of the parks are directed to use the authority under 36 CFR 1.5 to prohibit the launching, landing, or operation of unmanned aircraft in most conditions. There are some exceptions, such as scientists with approval doing research, or search and rescue teams conduction DFR (that’s drones for first response) operations.

But generally speaking, members of the public may not launch, land or operate drones on lands and waters administered by the National Parks Service. Violation of the ban on flying drones in national parks is a misdemeanor with the maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $5,000 fine.

Want to learn more? Here’s some more background around why this rule exists and tips on how to find legal places to fly your drone.

Bringing drones into U.S. national parks

You can usually pack it, you just can’t fly it. Very few U.S. national parks actually have security screening checkpoints. There are only a few exceptions, such as the Statue of Liberty National Monument in New York.

To get to the Statue of Liberty National Monument, you’ll need to board a ferry. Before you board the ferry, you’ll go through a security screening (similar to airport security procedures). And yes, there is a long list of prohibited items on the ferry. That includes weapons, drugs (including marijuana), large bags (like suitcases), open containers of alcohol and, of course, drones. If you try to bring a drone onto the ferry, you won’t be allowed to board unless you voluntarily surrender it. You won’t get it back, so that’s something you likely won’t want to do.

But for most other national parks, you don’t go through a security screening. So, if you’re taking a long roadtrip and pass through a national park — but you have a drone in your car — that’s okay. You just can’t break it out and fly it inside the national park.

Why are drones prohibited in U.S. national parks?

The National Park Service (NPS) enacted the drone ban in 2014, citing concerns over visitor experience, wildlife protection, and public safety. Here are some key reasons:

1. Visitor experience: National Parks are meant to provide serene, natural escapes. Sure, technology improvements have made drones quieter. Still, noise and presence of drones can disrupt the tranquil atmosphere visitors seek.
2. Wildlife protection: Drones can disturb certain animals, especially during sensitive times such as nesting or mating seasons.
3. Environmental disturbance: A crashed drone can impact the nature landscape. For example, the NPS has documented drones crashing into geysers in Yellowstone National Park and drones that have attempted to land on the features of Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
4. Safety risks: Drones may interfere with emergency operations, such as firefighting or search-and-rescue missions, putting lives at risk.

Where can you fly drones legally?

Not sure where you can and can’t fly drones in the U.S.? I’ve put together a guide outlining how to know if you can legally fly your drone in a specific area.

And sure, although National Parks are off-limits, there are plenty of other beautiful places to legally enjoy flying your drone. Here’s how you can find them:

1. Use the FAA’s B4UFLY service providers: There are a handful of FAA-approved B4UFly service providers. These companies work in partnership with the FAA to offer free apps, which in turn provide real-time information about airspace restrictions. Enter your flight location in the app to determine if it’s okay to fly your drone in a specific location.
2. Check local laws: While the FAA regulates airspace, states, counties, and cities often have additional drone regulations. Yes, some city parks or other private property might ban drones. Research the rules in your area before taking off.
3. Designated drone parks: Some communities have dedicated drone parks where enthusiasts can fly without worrying about legal issues. Many of these are official flying sites affiliated with the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Use the AMA Club Finder to find a flying site near you. Bonus: many of these clubs are a great spot to meet drone pilots in-person. After all, many host social events including club cookouts or fly days.

Exceptions to the rule on drones in national parks

While the general public cannot fly drones in National Parks, exceptions do exist:

1. Special Use Permits: In rare cases, the NPS may issue special use permits for drone flights. Though, these are typically for research or other approved purposes. Alas, flying drones for photography is usually not enough of a good reason to get a permit. And even if you do get a permit, prepare for hefty drone insurance requirements (typically at least $10 million dollars of liability insurance for your planned flight, as well as you fronting the costs of permitting and actually flying, such as the cost to the NPS to review those plans and monitor your flight). You’ll also need a Part 107 certification from the Federal Aviation Administration to prove you are a licensed drone pilot.
2. Authorized Operators: Licensed drone pilots working for scientific studies, park management or commercial projects may receive permission under strict guidelines. Again, you looking for content for your Instagram account generally won’t get you an exception.

Drones are not allowed in national parks

If you’re merely desperate for aerial footage of a national park (and don’t necessarily have to have filmed it on your own drone), visit the National Park Service’s multimedia portal. There, you can download thousands of videos of various national parks — many of which are aerial videos anyway.

While flying drones in National Parks is prohibited, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy your drone hobby responsibly and legally. By respecting the rules, you’ll help preserve the natural beauty of these iconic landscapes for generations to come. Be sure to use tools like any of the FAA B4UFLY apps. And, check local regulations to ensure you’re always flying within the law. Happy flying!

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