09/18/2026
The FBI, Federal Aviation Administration, Denver Police Department, and Denver Broncos want to remind everyone of the rules limiting drone use around Empower Field at Mile High during game days.
Airspace within 3 miles of Empower Field at Mile High is restricted one hour before and one hour after an NFL event. Temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) can also be in place for other large events at the venue. Flying drones in violation of a TFR near stadiums is illegal and dangerous.
Drone operators identified as being in violation of one or more federal regulations will be referred to the FAA for investigation. The FAA has recently strengthened its enforcement priorities, and any drone that poses a danger to the public, operates in restricted airspace, or is used in furtherance of a crime will trigger mandatory enforcement action. Unauthorized operators could face drone confiscation, revocation of pilot certificates and civil fines of up to $75,000 per violation. In addition, law enforcement agencies may pursue criminal penalties, including fines up to $100,000 and up to one year in federal prison.
Drone operators should check for active flight restrictions using an FAA-approved B4UFLY service provider. These free tools provide near real-time information on TFRs and restricted airspace. Most drones operating in U.S. airspace are required to broadcast Remote ID. Disabling or failing to comply with Remote ID requirements is a separate federal violation and can result in additional penalties. Authorities use multiple detection methods, whether or not Remote ID is broadcasting.
The FBI and FAA work with other partners to enforce TFRs using authorized counter-drone tools to detect and stop unauthorized drone activity under the SAFER SKIES Act. Personnel are in place at event venues with trained state and local partners like the Denver Police Department.
Most drone operators flying in restricted areas are not malicious, but law enforcement will intervene in every case to make sure. In July, the FBI disrupted a plot to use explosives loaded on drones to attack people at a UFC event on the White House lawn.
During World Cup matches and fan events over the summer, the FBI and our partners confiscated more than 700 illegal drones. One of those was an individual who was using his drone to take legitimate photos. Unfortunately for him, he crossed into restricted space.
Don’t be THAT person. Enjoy the game, and leave your drones at home.
Drone safety is everyone's business. If you are at an event and observe unauthorized or unsafe drone activity, report it immediately to 911, on-site law enforcement, or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or tips.fbi.gov.
Our priority is the safety and security of every participant, employee and fan. Drone operators who follow the rules can help us meet that goal and make for a safe and enjoyable game day experience.
