Drone Use On or Above South Dakota State Park Lands
Any operation of a drone in South Dakota shall comply with all applicable federal aviation administration requirements and state laws.
In Accordance with Federal and State Law, a Drone Must:
Be registered with the FAA.
Fly within visual line of sight.
Fly below 400 feet.
Fly only during daylight.
Not be used to eavesdrop or engage in any other type of surveillance in a private place.
Not be used to deliver contraband.
Not be used to hunt, kill, take, concentrate, drive, rally, stir up, spot, or locate game birds, or animals.
Not fly in a manner that causes serious public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm to any other person, makes unreasonable noise; disturbs any lawful assembly or meeting of persons, or obstructs vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
Not fly in a manner which interferes with the management of the area or the authorized use of the area by others.
Guidelines for Safe and Courteous Drone Operation On or Above South Dakota State Park Lands:
Fly in a manner that respects privacy.
Do not fly over people or groups of people (ie. campgrounds, beaches or playgrounds, festivals or gatherings when people are present).
Do not fly in a careless or reckless manner.
Do not fly near other aircraft.
Do not fly if operator is in a moving vehicle.
Do not fly if operator is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Do not fly near emergencies such as accidents, fires, or weather related incidents.
Do not fly near or harass bison or wildlife.
Use of Drone over State Park Land for Commercial Filming/Photography:
Contact the local park manager or complete the online Filming/Photography Permit.
A complete policy regarding drone use on Game, Fish and Parks property can be found here.
For further information for legal and safe drone operation visit Federal Aviation Administration or FAA Drone Zone.
Cluster State Park is a mistake, as there isn't a park by that name in South Dakota. However, there is Custer State Park, which is likely the park you're referring to.
Custer State Park OverviewCuster State Park is a sprawling and scenic natural reserve located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. Covering over 71,000 acres, it is one of the largest state parks in the United States. The park features a diverse landscape, including lush forests, rolling prairies, and impressive rock formations. It's known for its wildlife, such as bison, pronghorns, and bighorn sheep, and offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and scenic drives, particularly the Needles Highway and Wildlife Loop Road.
Flying a Drone in Custer State Park1. Legality: As of my last update in 2023, the use of drones is generally prohibited in most state parks across South Dakota, including Custer State Park. The park's regulations are in place to protect wildlife, ensure visitor safety, and preserve the natural environment.2. Special Permits: If you have a compelling reason to fly a drone, such as a commercial filming project, you may be able to obtain a special use permit. This typically involves an application process and may come with fees and specific restrictions.3. LANCE Authorization: LANCE (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) is relevant primarily for controlled airspace, typically around airports. Custer State Park itself is not near any major airport that would require LANCE authorization. However, it's always a good idea to check current FAA regulations and the UAS Facility Maps for any updates or changes.4. Additional Considerations: - Respect Wildlife: Even if permitted, drones can disturb wildlife, especially in a park known for its diverse and significant animal populations. - Safety: Ensure that drone flight does not pose any safety risk to park visitors. - Noise: Be mindful of the noise created by drones, as it can detract from the natural serenity that visitors seek.
RecommendationGiven the restrictions and the natural beauty meant to be experienced without disturbances, it may be more enjoyable to explore and capture memories using more traditional methods, such as photography or videography from the ground. Always check the most current regulations with the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks (GFP) department before planning your visit and drone usage.
Final NotesFor the most updated information, including any changes to drone policies, visit the Custer State Park's official website or contact the park directly.
Custer State Park, South Dakota, USA
96 hectares
G
No
