Can hunters use drones to take wildlife in Kansas?

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Hunters trying to gain a technological edge over wild game by using drones will need to check out some rules before hitting the trail in Kansas or else be ready to pay a heavy price in court.

State and federal law restrict the use of drones during hunting activities in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) helps guide hunters on the proper use of these devices at its state parks and while out hunting.

The KDWP refers to drones as unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAV) or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Hunters may face fines or even jail time if they are found to be using drones in violation of the law while in the Sunflower State.

"It is illegal to take any game animal or furbearing animal using any air vehicle or aircraft. It is also illegal for any person to use a radio or mechanical device to provide or receive information concerning the location of any game animal or furbearing animal for the purpose of taking such animal or bird."

KDWP Game Wardens social media post Oct. 18, 2024

Kansas state law regarding unlawful methods of taking wildlife prohibits the use of drones for scouting or hunting activities. State law also prohibits hunters from using drones to find wounded or harvested game.

The KDWP does list an exception for when drones are used for filming hunts. Drone use is permitted here for land not owned or managed by the agency as long as it is not used to take or locate game. A list of different rules and laws which apply to drones in Kansas' outdoor spaces can be found below:

• K.A.R. 115-8-13 - prevents the use of drones at any Kansas State Park, wildlife area or other property owned or managed by the KDWP.
• K.A.S. 60-31a02 - protects people from stalking or harassment through the use of drones over or near any dwelling, occupied vehicle or other place where people may expect to be safe from uninvited surveillance.
• K.A.S. 32-701 - prevents drones from being used to find wounded or harvested wildlife.
• K.A.S. 32-1003 - prohibits the use of aircraft to take wildlife.

Federal law states that people who are found using aircraft while hunting will face a maximum fine of up to $5,000, jail time up to one year or both. Hunters may also have their harvested animals, firearms and other equipment used during such hunts seized.

For more common questions on the use of drones in the great outdoors of Kansas, check the KDWP's website by clicking here. You can also check with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on best practices with drones in other scenarios. People can make reports of illegal drone use to the KDWP by calling Operation Game Thief at 877-426-3843 or sending a report online.

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