KEY POINTS
- The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is boosting enforcement of drone bans around Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara.
- A 30-mile temporary flight restriction up to 18,000 feet and additional local limits will be monitored closely.
- FBI and FAA personnel will detect, track and act against unauthorized drone flights near events.
U.S. authorities are intensifying action against unauthorized drones as Super Bowl LX approaches in Santa Clara, California.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), plans stepped-up enforcement of drone restrictions around game-related events.
A temporary flight restriction (TFR) has been established extending 30 miles from Levi’s Stadium and up to 18,000 feet on game day and during related activities.
Smaller TFRs also apply on dates and locations in San Francisco in the days leading up to the Super Bowl.
FAA officials said unauthorized drone activity poses safety risks to large crowds and manned aircraft near the event site.
The agency recently revised its enforcement policy to pursue action when drone flights threaten public safety or airspace rules.
FBI personnel are deploying alongside FAA teams to help detect, track and assess unauthorized drones entering restricted airspace.
Authorities said they will have around-the-clock monitoring through the Super Bowl period to capture and respond to violations.
Drone operators who fly into restricted zones without permission may face significant penalties under FAA and federal law.
These can include fines, drone confiscation, certificate action and, in serious cases, federal criminal charges.
The enhanced enforcement follows previous incidents at major events.
In 2025, a drone fined over $20,000 near Mar-a-Lago was cited, and another operator faced nearly $15,000 over activity during the 2023 Super Bowl.
FAA data show thousands of drone airspace incursions each year, but actual enforcement actions have been relatively few.
Officials say the new push reflects a more aggressive stance on ensuring compliance and safety.
Temporary no-fly policies have been used at other events, but the scale of the Super Bowl restrictions is larger due to the size of the event.
Authorities said they are prepared to act swiftly against unsafe operations around key fan zones.
Local law enforcement, aviation staff and federal agents are coordinating the enforcement plan.
The goal is to deter irresponsible behavior and protect the hundreds of thousands of visitors expected in the Bay Area.
The FAA’s emphasis on enforcement is part of broader safety planning for the Super Bowl period, which includes marine and airborne monitoring.
Security teams are preparing for large crowds and complex logistics across regional airspace.
Drone manufacturers and operators have been warned about the scope of the bans.
Pilots are advised to check TFR maps and avoid restricted areas without express authorization.
Failing to comply could result in enforcement action well beyond typical aviation fines.
Authorities said these steps are necessary to ensure both aerial and ground safety for wintry sports’ biggest U.S. event.
