State Parks Dept Wants Input on New Drone Rules for Inland Oregon, Coast

Published 01/07/26 at 4:55 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Lincoln City, Oregon) - Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is opening a public comment period on proposed rules that would govern where unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), or drones, may take off and land in state parks and along the ocean shore. This means all of the Oregon coast. Photo Manuela Durson - Manuela Durson Fine Arts. Her drone shots are some of the most striking on the coast

“The draft rules focus on regulating takeoff and landing locations, which are within the department’s authority, while recognizing that UAS flight is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA),” OPRD said. “Under the proposal, UAS use would generally be limited to designated areas for drone operations, with additional requirements for commercial or research purposes.”

Public comments will be accepted beginning January 1, 2026 at 8 a.m. Comments may be submitted online at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2025-Drones-Take-off-and-Landing.aspx, by email to OPRD.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov, or by mail to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Attn: Robert Ellison, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite C, Salem, OR 97301.

A virtual public hearing is scheduled for January 20, 2026 at 5 p.m. Registration is available at this link.

The rulemaking effort stems from Senate Bill 109 (2021), which directed the agency to create a framework that allows recreational drone access while minimizing conflicts with other visitors, as well as safeguarding sensitive park resources. Early drafts were reviewed those representing recreation groups, conservation interests, natural resource specialists and commercial operators, a committee which reviewed early drafts and provided recommendations incorporated into this proposal.

Of particular interest to many will be the Oregon coastline. It is almost all under the OPRD scope of management – from the vegetation line to the tideline.

Inn at Wecoma, Lincoln City by drone

After the comment period closes, OPRD staff will evaluate all feedback and prepare a final version for consideration by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission later in 2026. If they are approved, the rules would be phased in over time, allowing the agency to adjust management strategies based on resource conditions, visitor use and operational needs.

Oregon Coast Hotels in this area - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours

MORE PHOTOS BELOW

Lincoln City Openings for Sept (Including Holiday) Going for Less Than Much o...
One has openings on Labor Day Weekend ? Sept normally summer prices. Lincoln City hotel reviews, availability

Oregon Coast Spots With Wicked Cool Sights - and Rooms to View Them
Incredible views with serious pampering at Yachats, Lincoln City, Seaside. Hotel reviews, lodging

Oregon coast on the downlow (rates, that is), in Lincoln City and Cannon Beach
Exceptional hotel deals in Cannon Beach and Lincoln City. Cannon Beach reviews, Lincoln City reviews

Rockaway Beach Hotel News: New Inn Near Rockaway Beach is Really 100 Years Old
Boutique inn and BnB on north Oregon coast features marvelous high-end details; bathroom vanities created by local craftsmen, headboards made of live edge wood. Pets. Rockaway Beach Hotel Reviews

More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging.....

More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining.....

Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles)

Back to Oregon Coast

Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection
All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright © Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted