Kentucky has officially banned the use of aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems, such as drones, for hunting, fishing, or capturing wildlife.
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources announced that the new regulation — which took effect earlier this month — prohibits anyone from using aircraft or drones “to fish, hunt or take wildlife, to drive or herd any wildlife for those purposes, or to harass any wildlife.” The Interim Joint Committee on Natural Resources and Energy approved the rule on Oct. 16.
Under the department’s definition, “take” means to pursue, shoot, hunt, wound, catch, kill, trap, snare, or capture wildlife in any way, including using any device or action meant to lure or attract animals for those purposes.
“This regulation will provide guidance regarding the use of aircraft, including drones, while hunting, fishing, or participating in outdoor activities,” said Maj. David Marques of the department’s Law Enforcement Division. “It also gives wardens a framework for investigating and enforcing potential violations. This regulation has been needed for some time, and we are happy to finally have it in place.”
The rule makes exceptions for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife employees, contractors, or commercial fishers who use drones to locate or remove invasive carp on behalf of the agency.
For wildlife photographers or hobbyists using drones to capture images, officials said enforcement will depend on the situation. “Each situation will be up to the officer to evaluate in the field, but someone flying a drone just to get photographs should not be in violation,” said Public Information Officer Lisa Jackson. She also reminded drone operators to follow FAA guidelines and to be aware of any additional restrictions on state or federal properties.
Across the U.S., drone use for hunting is already illegal in several states, including Wisconsin and Colorado. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) continues to oversee the general laws and regulations for drone operation nationwide.
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