New measures are now in place to help protect Kentucky’s fish and wildlife resources from the increasing use of aircraft technologies by hunters and anglers in the field.

Following adjournment of the Kentucky Interim Joint Committee on Natural Resources and Energy on Oct. 16, 2025, a new administrative regulation ( 301 KAR 3:140) went into effect making it unlawful to use aircraft or unmanned aircraft in the take of fish or wildlife.

“This regulation will provide guidance regarding the use of aircraft, including drones, while hunting, fishing or participating in other outdoor activities,” said Maj. David Marques with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Law Enforcement Division. “It will also provide a framework for our wardens to work within when investigating and e

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