UAFR: Proposed Rule for Fixed-Site Facility Drone Restrictions
Read the official document (2026-08943)
Who should care: Pilots who fly near critical infrastructure and other fixed sites, and the facilities' operators.
This proposal creates no current operating requirements. It would let eligible facilities request FAA-designated restrictions; pilots would have to comply with any applicable restrictions once effective.
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Who this affectsWhat the document saysWhat changes in practiceWhat it does not doDoes this affect the Part 107 exam?Comment period (closed)Who this affects
Remote pilots who operate near fixed-site facilities (for example, critical infrastructure) that choose to file a UAFR request. Facility operators and proprietors who want to restrict drone operations near their site.
What the document says
Would implement section 2209 of the 2016 FAA Extension, Safety and Security Act by establishing a process for operators and proprietors of certain fixed-site facilities to request and maintain an unmanned aircraft flight restriction (UAFR). Would require applicants to demonstrate necessity for aviation safety, protection of people and property on the ground, national security, or homeland security. Also identifies which types of operations remain allowed within a UAFR.
What changes in practice
If the rule is finalized, facilities could apply for a restriction on drone flights near them, and the FAA would decide whether to designate one; a designated restriction would keep drones out of that area except for the types of operation the rule allows. FAA says UAFRs would be published through its UAS Data Delivery System. Operating obligations would depend on the final rule's effective date and on the establishment of specific UAFRs; publication alone would not activate every restriction.
What it does not do
Does not create a new airspace class. Does not change existing TFR procedures (which already allow requests from qualifying authorities). No amendment is effective through this NPRM, but it proposes revising section 107.45 to require compliance with Part 74 UAFRs. Facility applications are not the only proposed route: proposed sections 74.5 and 74.6 would also allow federal-agency requests and Special UAFR designation at the Administrator's discretion. Nothing takes effect while it remains a proposal.
Does this affect the Part 107 exam?
No. This is a proposed rule implementing a 2016 statute. The Part 107 exam tests current regulations, not pending proposals. You do not need to study this for your certificate.
Comment period (closed)
Comments were originally due July 6, 2026. FAA extended the deadline to August 5, 2026, and that comment period has closed. The docket, FAA-2026-4558, remains available on regulations.gov for reviewing the record.
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High-end camera drones, such as the DJI Mavic 3 Pro
An optional example of a camera drone designed for aerial photography and video. It is not connected to the notice on this page.See options on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Reviewed and updated September 2026.
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