Drone Flight Disrupts Fire Response in Kelowna
A man from Kelowna, British Columbia, has been found guilty under the Wildfire Act after flying a drone near an active wildfire, interfering with critical firefighting efforts. The conviction marks one of the first successful prosecutions under provincial wildfire safety laws for unauthorized drone use during an emergency.
Officials say the case highlights how dangerous and disruptive unmanned aircraft can be when they enter fire zones.
Drone Grounding Rules in Wildfire Zones
Under B.C.’s Wildfire Act, flying drones in or near active wildfire areas is strictly prohibited because unmanned aircraft pose serious risks to air operations. Fire crews, helicopters and water-bombing aircraft need clear airspace to safely fight fires, and even small UAVs can force firefighting flights to stop or divert.
In this case, authorities determined that the drone flight hindered firefighting efforts around a wildfire near Kelowna, delaying crucial aerial support.
Incident Linked to Ongoing Firefighting
The incident occurred last year when crews were battling a wildfire in the area. While details of the exact location and timing have not been fully disclosed, investigators confirmed that the drone was airborne in restricted airspace and posed a safety threat to aircraft involved in the response.
Fire officials grounded air operations until the drone threat was resolved, temporarily slowing water drops and surveillance flights.
Court Convicts Drone Operator
A provincial court judge found the man guilty of violating the Wildfire Act’s section prohibiting drone operation in an active fire zone. The conviction reflects the seriousness with which B.C. courts treat actions that endanger public safety and interfere with emergency services.
The judge noted that drone pilots must be aware of restrictions and that public safety outweighs recreational or personal drone use in wildfire conditions.
Wildfire Act Powers Highlighted
The Wildfire Act gives authorities the power to fine or charge individuals whose actions impede firefighting efforts or increase the risk of fire spread. Since its introduction, the law has been used to target unsafe campfires, illegal burns and other activities that complicate wildfire control.
This latest conviction underscores that unauthorized drone flights — especially during active fire operations — can attract legal consequences.
Fire Officials Urge Caution
Officials from the B.C. Wildfire Service are urging all drone owners and recreational flyers to respect wildfire airspace restrictions. They remind pilots that even small drones can cause large firefighting aircraft to land or hold position, jeopardizing the safety of ground crews and the public.
The service also notes that fines and charges under the Wildfire Act serve as deterrents to protect both first responders and communities threatened by wildfires.
Public Safety Takes Priority
As wildfires become more common in British Columbia due to climate conditions, ensuring clear skies around fire zones remains a priority. Emergency responders say public cooperation — including following drone restrictions — is essential to protect lives, homes, infrastructure and the environment.
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