Drone operations in state parks

 

 

State Parks where drone (UAS) operations are allowed

Coming Soon! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Are there places and times a visitor can’t fly a drone?

Answer: Oregon State Park properties and the ocean shore are closed to drone (UAS) operations, unless approved by permit. Additional properties are being evaluated and may be opened for operations in the coming months. They will be listed on this website.

Any drone operations must follow all Federal Aviation Authority requirements at all times.

Question: When will the Oregon state park system pass rules to control drones?

Answer: The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) adopted rules related to operation of drones in state parks and the ocean shore effective May 1, 2026.

Question: Are state park rules the only requirement guiding drone pilots?

Answer: The Federal Aviation Authority has rules and guidelines for drone operators, and these are in effect whether the state park system adopts rules or not. They are online at https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/

Question: How do I find out whether I can fly my drone in a state park or not?

Answer: A list of parks allowing drone operations is currently in development and will be shared on this site. Operations may be allowed through a permit in parks that are not open to operations.

Question: What do I do if a drone is bothering me at a park?

Answer: Contact uniformed park staff or volunteers at the park, or call 1-800-551-6949, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and ask to be connected to the closest state park office.

Drone (UAS) Operations Best Practices

UAS operation is only allowed within designated UAS Operation Areas published by OPRD. Even within designated areas, operators are expected to fly safely, responsibly, and in compliance with all FAA requirements.

Respect Wildlife and Natural Resources

  • Do not disturb wildlife or sensitive habitats.
  • If wildlife reacts to your UAS, move farther away or stop operating.
  • Avoid flying near nesting areas, shorebirds, or other protected resources.
  • Do not fly over or near wildlife. This can stress out wildlife and cause significant harm or even death. Disturbance of animals during breeding, nesting, rearing of young, or other critical life functions is against state and federal law.
  • Consider topography, prevailing wind speed and direction, and sound levels emitted by drones to establish safe and suitable locations for takeoff and landing.

Respect Other Visitors

  • Avoid flying directly over people or crowded areas.
  • Be mindful of noise and the visitor experience.
  • Yield to other park users and avoid creating conflicts.

Follow FAA Requirements

  • Keep your UAS within visual line of sight.
  •  Ensure that you comply with all FAA regulations and guidance for flying your drone. The FAA has authority over all airspace. Information on FAA regulations is available at http://www.faa.gov/uas/.
  • Do not interfere with emergency operations or other aircraft.
  • Utilize available navigation resources at https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/b4ufly

Fly Safely

  • Only operate in safe weather and visibility conditions.
  • Land immediately if conditions become unsafe.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and operate responsibly.
  • Practice and learn to operate your drone safely before visiting a state park or the Ocean Shore.
  • In the event of a crash, operators should consider if the aircraft can be safely removed without disturbing natural resources and jeopardizing personal safety. Abandonment of the UAS may be required to avoid further disturbance. Consult park staff before attempting to retrieve a drone in a closed or dangerous area.

Commercial or Special Use

  • Commercial, research, or other non-recreational UAS use require a permit from OPRD.
  • Request a special use permit from the park you want to operate in.