Drone Rules for Hampton Brook Woods Wildlife Management Area
Both hobbyist and commercial drone users should contact the DEC Wildlife office closest to the Wildlife Management Area prior to drone use at these properties.
Anyone using a WMA should be aware of the rules governing that particular area. Statewide hunting and fishing regulations as well as statewide WMA regulations (PDF) apply to WMAs. In general, on WMAs it is unlawful to:
- Target shoot unless posted as an allowed activity;
- Camp without written permission;
- Travel off-road by use of motorcycles, motor scooters, mopeds, trail bikes, snowmobiles, or any other motorized vehicle, except as specifically allowed by a permit or posted notice;
- Remove, cut, or willfully damage or destroy living vegetation of any kind;
- Construct or place a permanent structure, blind, stand, or platform (including placement of nails or other hardware into trees);
- Leave any personal property when exiting the area, including trail cameras (tree stands labeled with name and address or DEC ID number may be left overnight, but must be removed at the end of the hunting season);
- Enter property posted with "No Trespassing" signs, except with written permission from DEC;
- Moor or store boats overnight; or
- Have fires except for cooking or warmth.
Additional activities that are prohibited (with exceptions under certain conditions) include swimming and the operation of boats or other watercraft under mechanical power other than an electric motor. Note that in certain cases, however, additional special regulations may also apply. Each WMA has its own webpage that lists featured activities, available facilities, any site-specific restrictions, and a map of the area. Please refer to the webpage or kiosk of each WMA for specific restrictions. These special regulations can include:
- reductions in hunting hours;
- restrictions on the number of people using the area; and
- increased requirements for sportsmen and women to report on the results of their activities.