State: Keep Your Drones Away from Outdoor Events

The Rhode Island Airport Corporation is reminding people that the use of unmanned aircraft, or drones, are prohibited from public open air events.

In a statement, the Rhode Island Airport Corporation Airport Inspector James Warcup said the notification was issued in anticipation of "a number of highly attended open air summer events."

"Any use of drones/UAS in the vicinity of any public open air event would violate Rhode Island’s Uniform Aeronautical Regulatory Act (UAR) and Aeronautics Regulations, constituting a misdemeanor. RIAC is enlisting the support of the RI State Police and local law enforcement departments to monitor and enforce this law," he said. "The Rhode Island Airport Corporation’s primary concern is aviation safety. This is expected to be a busy season of open air summer events in Rhode Island."

To fly a drone, you need permission from the FAA before operating any drone in Rhode Island.