Do you own a drone? If so, there are important restrictions in federal law that you should know.

Unmanned aircraft systems, popularly called drones, have become increasingly popular and less expensive in recent years. However, many people may not be aware that they are regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration, which also controls private and commercial aircraft. FAA regulations restrict drone use within areas where they may interfere with other air traffic, such as an FAA rules also prohibit drone use over most federal land, such as national forests and parks.

A drone can annoy visitors to these public places, typically seeking peace and quiet. A drone may disturb, or even harass, wildlife. Drones may also interfere with other aerial activity such as wildfire detection and suppression. There have been several incidents in recent years in which firefighters have had to suspend the use of aircraft in fighting wildfires because of the presence of private drones.

Recent FAA regulations require the registration of drones above a certain weight or face civil and criminal penalties. The Huron-Manistee National Forests encourage the public to be aware of these regulations and the responsibility involved in flying a drone by visiting their website at: https://www.faa.gov/uas/registration/faqs/

-- Press release courtesy of Huron-Manistee National Forests