Using a drone to interfere with wildfire fighting brings civil penalties up to $75,000
Flying a drone to knowingly or recklessly interfere with wildfire suppression, or with an emergency response under a federal flight restriction, is banned. The Attorney General, county counsels or city attorneys can sue for up to $75,000 per violation.
Who it affects
Drone operators
When
This law takes effect on January 1, 2027. California laws take effect on January 1 of the year after they are signed, unless the law says otherwise.
- : Signed into law
- : This law takes effect
Official text
California AB 1749: Interfering with wildfire suppression and emergency responses with drone.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.