University of Alabama Bans Drones Over Bryant-Denny Stadium on Game Days

The University of Alabama has reiterated its strict ban on drones flying over campus during football game days at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The reminder comes as college football season approaches and drone incidents at major sporting events continue to surge nationwide.

In accordance with FAA regulations, drones are prohibited from flying in and around Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium starting one hour before and ending one hour after games. The restriction covers a 3-nautical-mile radius (approximately 3.45 statute miles or 5.6 kilometers) around the stadium and extends up to 3,000 feet (914 meters) in altitude.

Federal Regulations Cover All Major Stadiums

Bryant-Denny Stadium’s 100,077 capacity puts it well above the FAA’s 30,000-seat threshold for automatic temporary flight restrictions. The federal rules apply to all NFL, MLB, NCAA Division I Football, and NASCAR Sprint Cup events across the country.

The University’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Policy requires approvals from the FAA, University of Alabama, and local Air Traffic Control for any drone flights over campus. University officials urge fans to “be a good sport and leave your drone at home on UA game days.”

Serious Penalties for Violations

Violating stadium TFRs can result in severe consequences. Drone pilots face potential fines up to $75,000, criminal prosecution under federal law, and drone confiscation. The airspace around stadiums during events is classified as National Defense Airspace, making violations a federal offense.

Recent incidents demonstrate the risks. In January 2025, an NFL playoff game between the Ravens and Steelers was paused when a drone flew over M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. The operator faces multiple federal charges.

NFL security officials report that unauthorized drone incidents at games skyrocketed from 67 in 2018 to 2,845 in 2023—a staggering 4,145% increase. These disruptions have prompted new federal legislation backed by major sports leagues to expand enforcement authority.

Critical Safety Reminders for Drone Pilots

Never fly drones over people or stadiums during games, concerts, or other events. Even if you’re unaware of the restrictions, ignorance is not a defense against federal prosecution.

Stay clear of rescue operations, fire fighter and first responder activities. Emergency personnel need unobstructed airspace to save lives. Your drone could interfere with critical operations and put people at risk.

Check flight restriction tools like B4UFLY or AutoPylot before every flight. These apps show stadium TFRs and other restricted airspace in real-time.

DroneXL’s Take

Alabama’s reminder highlights a persistent gap in drone pilot education. Despite federal restrictions dating back to 2014, thousands of pilots continue flying illegally over stadiums—many likely unaware they’re breaking the law.

The enforcement challenge is real. Only FBI and DHS have authority to neutralize rogue drones, but they can’t cover regular season games. The proposed DEFENSE Act would extend that authority to local law enforcement, but privacy concerns have stalled progress in Congress.

For now, the message is clear: if there’s a crowd, there’s probably a TFR. Check before you fly, or risk losing your drone and facing federal charges. The stakes are too high for “I didn’t know” excuses.

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