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Drone Rules for Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Wells, Maine (ME) • United States
321 Port Rd, Wells, ME 04090, USA
Lat: 43.3475 • Lng: -70.5482
Ground Not allowed Last updated: May 30, 2026
Summary
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Rachel Carson NWR prohibits all drone operations under USFWS Director's Order 210. The refuge protects 50 miles of Maine coastline and estuarine habitat critical for Piping Plover and Least Tern nesting.

Drone Rules - Rachel Carson NWR

All UAS operations are prohibited under USFWS Director's Order 210 (2015). Special Use Permit required for any exception.

Airspace / Site Context

  • Portland International Jetport (KPWM) Class C airspace lies ~20 miles NE of headquarters
  • Refuge consists of 11 noncontiguous units along the southern Maine coast
  • Encompasses salt marshes, barrier beaches, and upland areas totaling 14,600 acres
  • ESA-listed Piping Plover nests on refuge beaches April-August

Key Rules

  • No drone launches or landings anywhere within refuge boundaries
  • Piping Plover and Least Tern nesting colonies have strict April-August buffer zones
  • Atlantic Salmon (ESA endangered) rivers adjacent to refuge units
  • Maine state law independently prohibits drone harassment of wildlife

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