Oregon officials warn drone operators: Stay away from active wildfires

OREGON (KTVZ) -- The Oregon Department of Aviation and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management are issuing a joint warning instructing drone operators to avoid flying over or near active wildfires. Unauthorized drone flights force emergency aircraft to halt operations, delaying fire suppression efforts and increasing risks to crews, nearby communities and infrastructure.

Firefighting planes and helicopters operate at low altitudes in the same airspace where recreational drones travel, creating severe collision risks. When an unauthorized drone is detected near a blaze, air crews must stop operations until the airspace is clear. Oregon officials noted that recent drone disruptions have delayed aircraft responding to wildfires, hindering containment efforts. Drone detection equipment may be deployed near active fire zones to identify unauthorized operators.

Violators who fly drones near active wildfires face civil fines up to $75,000 and up to 12 months in federal prison. Additional penalties include the confiscation of drone equipment and the permanent revocation of pilot certificates.

Andrew Jahier is the director of response and recovery for the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. He stressed that aerial interference hampers life-saving firefighting operations.

“No photo is worth a federal prison sentence or a $75,000 fine,” Jahier said. “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” State officials instructed all drone operators to check Temporary Flight Restrictions prior to flying. Active wildfire zones are classified as strict no-drone areas at all times, including at night and on weekends. Anyone who spots an unauthorized drone in a fire zone is urged to report it immediately to local law enforcement or 911.

Kenji Sugahara serves as the director of the Oregon Department of Aviation. Sugahara called on drone owners to keep emergency airspace clear to safeguard responders and residents.

“Flying a drone near a wildfire can put lives at risk,” Sugahara said. “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.”

ODAV and OEM are coordinating with state, federal and local partners to maintain clear airspace during fire seasons across Oregon.