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Drone Rules for Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

Springville, Tennessee (TN) • United States
1371 Wildlife Dr, Springville, TN 38256, USA
Lat: 36.3309 • Lng: -88.1268
Ground Not allowed Last updated: May 30, 2026
Summary
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USFWS prohibits drones on Tennessee NWR. The three-unit refuge on Kentucky Lake hosts wintering Canada geese, mallards, and diving ducks managed in TVA reservoir impoundments.

Drone Rules - Tennessee NWR, Tennessee

Drones are prohibited under USFWS Director's Order 210; TVA dam structures at Kentucky Lake are critical infrastructure with a federal 500-ft buffer.

Airspace / Site Context

  • Three management units (Duck and Goose, Busseltown, Big Sandy) along Kentucky Lake and Tennessee River
  • Nashville International (BNA) Class C outer ring does not extend this far (~80 NM east); Parsons-Decatur (PVE) Class G is the nearest
  • Winter hunting seasons (October-January) mean active waterfowl hunters in adjacent private areas; drone/hunter conflicts have been reported

Key Rules

  • TVA Kentucky Lake: 500-ft no-fly buffer from dam structures applies to the impoundment areas
  • USFWS Special Use Permit required; research permits go to USFWS Tennessee NWR manager
  • Hunting season drone/hunter conflicts: Tennessee game wardens have cited drone operators for interfering with hunters near the refuge boundary

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