Ohio Drone Hunting Laws: When Using Drones Is Legal and Illegal

Hunting often requires spending long hours waiting for the perfect shot opportunity. Because hunting season is limited, some hunters may look for ways to gain an advantage. One option that may seem appealing is using a drone, also known as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). However, hunters should be aware that using a drone for hunting purposes is illegal in most states. At the same time, an increasing number of states now allow drones to assist with game recovery. This guide explains Ohio’s laws regarding drones and hunting. If you live in another state, always review your local laws to avoid penalties.

It is illegal to use a drone if it assists in the act of hunting. Hunters cannot use drones to search for, locate, or monitor wildlife to plan a hunt. Drones also cannot be used to follow, push, or chase live animals during or immediately before hunting season. Even outside of hunting activity, it is illegal to harass, pursue, or track protected wildlife, such as eagles. In addition, flying a drone while carrying any hunting implement, including a firearm or bow, is prohibited.

Here is the exact wording of Ohio Administrative Code Rule 1501:31-15-02 as published by ohio.gov :

(B) It shall be unlawful for any person to hunt, shoot, shoot at, kill, take or attempt to take any wild bird or wild quadruped from or by means, aid, or use of any aircraft, including aerial drones, or any motor-driven conveyance or its attachments, except:

(1) As provided in section 2923.16 of the Revised Code and rule 1501:31-9-08 of the Administrative Code;

(2) Wild animals, except migratory game birds, may be shot from farm machinery when being used in normal farm operations;

(3) Small game and furbearing animals, except mink, muskrat, river otters, and beaver, may be hunted from a powercraft if the motor has been completely shut off and the powercraft has come to rest;

Although drone laws vary by state, Ohio does allow drones to assist with deer recovery after the animal has already been taken. In most cases, no weapons may be present during the recovery operation. Anyone involved in recovering the deer cannot possess firearms, bows, or other hunting implements while the drone is being used.

If the deer is discovered to still be alive, the drone operator must immediately discontinue use of the drone. In many situations, hunters cannot continue pursuing the animal after spotting it with the drone. Here is the relevant portion of Rule 1501:31-15-02:

(4) Aerial drones may be used to aid in the recovery of a deer after the taking has occurred, provided that no one involved in the recovery is employing a hunting device at the time. If said deer is found to be still alive, the use of the drone will be discontinued before hunting can resume. In this limited case, the drone operator may provide the location where the deer was last located by the drone.

Hunters should also be aware that local game wardens or state wildlife officials may need to be notified before launching the drone or immediately after the recovery process. In addition, all federal FAA regulations must be followed. These rules include maintaining visual line of sight and avoiding flights over private property without permission.

Understanding Ohio's drone hunting laws is essential for avoiding serious penalties. The rules are strict: drones cannot be used to locate, track, or pursue live game animals, and recovery operations must follow the law exactly. A single violation could lead to costly fines, legal consequences, and the loss of hunting privileges.

Before using a drone during hunting season, make sure you fully understand both Ohio wildlife regulations and federal FAA requirements. Sharing this information with fellow hunters can help everyone stay informed, remain compliant, and avoid unnecessary legal trouble. Keep in mind that these laws apply specifically to Ohio, so hunters in other states should always check their own local regulations before using a drone in the field.