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Drone Rules for Palo Verde Generating Power Station

Tonopah, Arizona (AZ) • United States
5801 S Wintersburg Rd, Tonopah, AZ 85354, USA
Lat: 33.3826 • Lng: -112.861
Ground Not allowed Last updated: May 30, 2026
Summary
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Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station is the largest nuclear power plant in the US by generating capacity and is subject to strict NRC no-fly security zones. All drone operations are prohibited under federal law.

Drone Rules - Palo Verde Nuclear Station

All drone operations are prohibited within Palo Verde's security zones under NRC 10 CFR Part 73 regulations.

Airspace / Site Context

  • Phoenix Sky Harbor (KPHX) Class B inner shelf begins ~30 miles east
  • Buckeye Municipal Airport (KBXK) Class D lies ~15 miles SE
  • Plant generates 3,937 MW — largest nuclear power output in the US
  • Three pressurized water reactors; security zone extends outward from each reactor building

Key Rules

  • NRC requires facility to use all available means to prevent UAS access to protected areas
  • FAA NOTAM may designate temporary flight restrictions over the plant
  • Arizona Revised Statutes 13-3729 prohibits UAS over critical public infrastructure
  • Armed security forces on site 24/7 with authority to disable or shoot down threatening UAS

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