Summary: FAA’s new drone TFR rules give law enforcement power to restrict drones at stadiums and large events, boosting airspace safety and crowd security.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has released a major update to its drone TFR (Temporary Flight Restriction) policy, introducing new capabilities for law enforcement to restrict drone operations at large public gatherings, stadiums, and major events. This update, outlined in Notice JO 7210.960, is effective as of August 7, 2025, and reflects growing concerns over unauthorized drone flights in crowded environments.

Unlike traditional TFRs that applied to all aircraft, this new temporary flight restriction for drones under Section 44812 is focused solely on unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) — a shift designed to better align with modern airspace security needs.

Why the FAA Drone TFR Update Matters

The FAA’s new drone flight restrictions for stadiums and events aim to enhance public safety by giving law enforcement greater control over airspace during high-attendance outdoor events. 

From concerts to major sporting events, drones endanger crowds, create security vulnerabilities, and disrupt law enforcement operations.

What’s New: Key Highlights of the FAA Drone TFR Policy

The FAA now allows drone-only TFRs under a statutory authority granted by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. These restrictions apply exclusively to unmanned aircraft operations and can be requested by law enforcement under two event categories:

Stadium/Venue Category (44812(c)(1)):

• Must be in a stadium/venue that previously hosted events requiring special security instructions under Public Law 108-199  (e.g., NFL games, major concerts) 
• Venue must not be enclosed
• Minimum 30,000 estimated attendance
• Must be publicly advertised

Other Large Gathering Category (44812(c)(2)):

• Minimum 100,000 estimated attendance
• Primarily outdoors
• Defined and static geographical boundary
• Must be publicly advertised

These new FAA drone restrictions differ from past policies by offering targeted protections for events where drones present a unique threat.

TFR Drone Approval and Enforcement Details

Who Can Request a Drone TFR?

Only credentialed law enforcement agencies — Federal, State, local, Tribal, or territorial — are eligible to request a TFR for drones at events. The request must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the event.

Where to Submit Your Request

Requests go through the appropriate FAA Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Service Center based on your event location. You can use the FAA’s UAS UDDS interactive map to determine your regional center.

Submission Emails:

• Eastern Region: 9-ATO-ESA-TFR-44812@faa.gov
• Central Region: 9-ATO-CSA-TFR-44812@faa.gov
• Western Region: 9-ATO-WSA-TFR-44812@faa.gov

Include in your request:

• Event name, date, and time
• Address and GPS coordinates
• Desired altitude and airspace radius
• Contact details

When Drone Flights Are Still Allowed

Even within a drone TFR, unmanned aircraft operations may still be authorized if:

• The FAA Administrator determines the flight is necessary for safety, security, or compliance, OR
• The requesting law enforcement agency approves the operation

What The New TFR Means for Law Enforcement and Stadium Security Teams

This TFR represents a significant evolution in TFR policy, creating the first statutory authority specifically designed to address unmanned aircraft operations at large public events, driven by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024.

Whether you’re managing a stadium, securing a major outdoor event, or part of a public safety team, this rule gives you a powerful new tool to keep your airspace safe:

• More Control Over Event Airspace

  You can now request a federally backed drone restriction zone, keeping drones out of your skies.  Despite the legal boundaries, there will still be pilots-whether careless or unaware who fly anyway. That’s why it’s critical not to over-rely on policy alone. While the TFR gives you the authority to act, a drone detection system gives you the awareness to respond.
  
  

• Stronger Legal Backing

  The TFR provides clear FAA authority to act against unauthorized drone activity during large-scale gatherings.
  
  

• Greater Planning Responsibility

  TFRs must be requested at least 30 days in advance, so coordination between law enforcement, event planners, and the FAA is more important than ever.