In response to the growing popularity of remote controlled aircraft, helicopters and multi-copters (aka UAV or drones), Burning Man has established regulations under the Black Rock City Safety Team, and updated its guidelines for registering, and the terms and conditions for flying RC aircraft in Black Rock City.
Like mutant vehicles, BRC regulates all RC aircraft and requires that they be operated responsibly, and are subject to restricted fly zones and other rules of operation. The goal is to streamline the registration process, have all RC pilots be familiar with flying in the city, and make it safer for all Burning Man participants.
The FAA requires all pilots of RC aircraft flying within 5 miles of an airport to notify that airport of their operations. Virtually all of Black Rock City is within 5 miles of 88NV, Black Rock City Municipal Airport, and completing the online registration and on-playa briefing meets this requirement.
Unregistered drones are prohibited (if you’re not sure if your drone is registered, then it isn’t registered — leave your drone at home)!
2024 Drone Information:
The drone application for 2024 has closed. Please check this page in the spring of 2025 for the 2025 drone application. Any unregistered drones or unpermitted flying will result in your drone being confiscated.
You can familiarize yourself with the 2024 drone policies here.