Unauthorized drone flights over wildfires can ground live-saving areal operations, OEM reminds
By Garrett Christensen on Friday, August 21st, 2026 in Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories
SALEM – (Press release from the Oregon Department of Emergency Management) The Oregon Department of Aviation (ODAV) and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) are jointly urging all drone operators to follow federal and state regulations: Do NOT fly drones over or near active wildfire areas under any circumstances. If you fly, we can’t.
Across Oregon and the nation, unauthorized drones have repeatedly forced wildfire managers to ground firefighting aircraft. When a drone is spotted in a fire zone, air crews must halt operations until the drone is cleared. These interruptions allow wildfires to intensify and spread, increasing risks for firefighters, nearby communities, and critical infrastructure.
Why Drone Interference Is So Dangerous
- Firefighting aircraft operate at very low altitudes, often in the same airspace used by recreational drones, creating significant collision hazards.
- Even brief disruptions can halt suppression operations at critical moments.
- In Oregon, recent incidents have already delayed aircraft responding to active wildfires, hindering containment efforts and putting crews at greater risk.
Drone detection equipment may be deployed at or near active wildfire incidents to help identify unauthorized drone activity and protect the airspace needed for firefighting operations.
Legal Consequences for Unauthorized Drone Flights
ODAV and OEM emphasize that penalties for flying a drone near a wildfire are substantial:
- Up to $75,000 in civil fines
- Up to 12 months in federal prison
- Confiscation of drone equipment
- Permanent revocation of pilot certificates
These penalties reflect the seriousness of interfering with emergency aviation operations.
What Drone Operators Must Do
- Check Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) before operating any drone.
- All active wildfire areas are strict No Drone Zones. This includes at night and on the weekends.
- Keep emergency airspace clear to ensure firefighters can work safely and effectively.
- Report unauthorized drones immediately to local law enforcement or call 9-1-1.
Statements from Officials
“No photo is worth a federal prison sentence or a $75,000 fine. When your drone is in the air, fire aircraft can’t fly, delaying critical firefighting efforts. Don’t fly drones over wildfires, day or night – EVER ” the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, Director of Response and Recovery, Andrew Jahier, said.
“Flying a drone near a wildfire can put lives at risk. Firefighting aircraft operate in extremely challenging conditions, and an unauthorized drone can force those aircraft out of the area when they are needed most. We need every drone owner to understand the responsibility that comes with flying. If there is a wildfire nearby, keep your drone on the ground and give firefighters the airspace they need to protect our communities,” the Oregon Department of Aviation Director Kenji Sugahara, said.
ODAV & OEM Encourage Oregonians to Help Protect Their Communities
Both agencies are working with state, federal, and local partners to ensure safe airspace during Oregon’s increasingly active fire seasons. Keeping drones grounded near wildfires is one of the most important ways Oregonians can contribute to community safety.
For more guidance on safe and responsible drone use, visit the Oregon Department of Aviation at oregon.gov/aviation and follow ODAV (@ORAviation) and OEM (@oregonOEM) on most social media platforms.
