Temporary Flight Restrictions In Place for Timber and Plaskett Fires

DATE/TIME: 9/10/2026 5:10 PM
TYPE OF INCIDENT: Temporary Flight Restrictions Remain in Effect Over Timber and Plaskett Fires - Drones Prohibited
LOCATION: Big Sur and South Monterey County Coastlines, California
MEDIA CONTACT: Andres Rosas, Commander 831-261-5492 [email protected]

The Monterey County Sheriff's Office is reminding the public that Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) remain in place in areas affected by the Timber and Plaskett Fires along the Big Sur and South Monterey County coastlines. Flying a drone within restricted airspace is illegal and can endanger firefighting aircraft and their crews.

On September 9, 2026, an unauthorized drone interfered with aircraft engaged in firefighting operations, resulting in the temporary grounding of aircraft. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating this incident.

Unauthorized drone flights can force firefighting aircraft to suspend operations, delaying efforts to protect lives, property, and communities. Even a small drone can pose a serious collision hazard to helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft operating at low altitudes.

Drone operators who violate these restrictions may face significant penalties, including federal civil penalties of up to $20,000, seizure of their drone as evidence, and criminal prosecution. California Penal Code § 402(a) prohibits conduct at an emergency scene that impedes emergency personnel and specifically applies to persons operating drones at the scene of an emergency.

18 U.S.C. § 40A makes it a federal crime to knowingly or recklessly operate a drone in a manner that interferes with wildfire suppression, law enforcement, or related emergency response efforts. Violations may result in a federal fine, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.

The Monterey County Sheriff's Office and our law and fire partners who are working under unified command ask everyone to keep drones grounded near the Timber and Plaskett Fires and to stay clear of all restricted airspace.