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Drone Rules for Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Merritt Island, Florida (FL) • United States
Space Commerce Wy, Merritt Island, FL 32953, USA
Lat: 28.5219 • Lng: -80.6815
Ground Not allowed Last updated: May 30, 2026
Summary
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USFWS prohibits drones on Merritt Island NWR. Kennedy Space Center's TFR and the refuge's co-location with KSC create one of the most complex airspace environments for wildlife managers in the US.

Drone Rules - Merritt Island NWR, Florida

Drones are prohibited under USFWS Director's Order 210; permanent KSC TFR (R-2935) overlays the entire refuge.

Airspace / Site Context

  • Kennedy Space Center restricted airspace R-2935 covers the refuge; activation (launches, processing days) creates a hard ceiling -- NO civilian UAS
  • Orlando Melbourne International (MLB) Class C is ~10 NM south; Daytona Beach International (DAB) Class C is ~30 NM north
  • Over 330 bird species including Florida scrub-jay (threatened), bald eagle nests, and manatees in Indian River Lagoon

Key Rules

  • Check R-2935 status daily via FAA TFR viewer; KSC launch days mean zero civilian airspace access
  • Even on non-TFR days, USFWS Director's Order 210 prohibits drones independently of the military airspace restriction
  • USFWS/KSC joint Special Use Permit required for research UAS -- dual agency review process

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