DroneXL | Haye Kesteloo | October 23, 2025
Illegal drone activity is spiking across U.S. national parks as the federal government shutdown enters its 23rd day, with tour guides in Yosemite reporting multiple daily sightings compared to their normal rate of about one drone per week.
The enforcement vacuum comes as the National Park Service operates with skeleton crews after losing 24% of its permanent staff since January and furloughing the majority of remaining rangers during the shutdown that began October 1.
Why This Matters for Drone Pilots Now
This situation represents a critical moment for the drone community. While some pilots exploit reduced enforcement to fly illegally in protected areas, their actions threaten to trigger even harsher restrictions for all drone operators nationwide. The National Park Service banned drones in 2014, and violations carry penalties of up to $5,000 in fines and six months in jail.
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