As drone use becomes more ubiquitous, regulations lag behind to determine where these remote-controlled device can and more importantly can't be used. For many, NBC News reported, it may come as a surprise that national parks are a no-fly zone.
Regulations were passed in July, 2014. Fines for flying drones in a national park can exceed $1,000.
The drones are prohibited because their presence can be disturbing, not only to people trying to peacefully enjoy the parks, but also to wildlife. Drones "can interfere with, let's say, nesting birds or wildlife that is, you know, high on the mountain," said Jon Jarvis, director of the National Park Service.
Jarvis recalled several incidents that illustrate the need for the rules. One drone enthusiast chased a pack of bighorn sheep and separated the adults from their young.
In another drone mishap, a German national's drone crashed into a lake at Yellowstone National Park, forcing a park diver to fish it out.
