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Drone Rules for Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Tulelake, California (CA) • United States
4009 Hill Rd, Tulelake, CA 96134, USA
Lat: 41.9387 • Lng: -121.565
Ground Not allowed Last updated: May 30, 2026
Summary
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USFWS prohibits drones on Tule Lake NWR. The Klamath Basin refuges host the largest concentration of migratory waterfowl on the Pacific Flyway -- up to 1 million ducks and geese in October.

Drone Rules - Tule Lake NWR, California

Drones are prohibited under USFWS Director's Order 210; adjacent Lower Klamath NWR (Oregon/California) is under the same blanket prohibition.

Airspace / Site Context

  • Klamath Basin peak migration (October): 500,000 to 1 million waterfowl creates the highest bird density in the Western Hemisphere in a finite airspace column
  • Bald eagles congregate to feed on crippled ducks; up to 1,000 bald eagles winter in the basin -- Bald Eagle Protection Act applies
  • Klamath Falls Airport (LMT) Class D is ~30 NM north; Medford (MFR) Class C is ~60 NM west

Key Rules

  • October waterfowl migration: drone launch near the basin during peak would create immediate multi-species disturbance event
  • The Klamath Basin NWR Complex (six refuges) is managed as a unit; a single USFWS Special Use Permit covers all six but requires regional office review
  • Bald Eagle Protection Act violation carries up to $10,000 fine per bird disturbed

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