The Santa Clara Police Department, in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and regional law enforcement partners, is advising the public that strict airspace restrictions will be in effect during FIFA World Cup events at Levi’s Stadium.
Levi’s Stadium and surrounding event areas will operate under federally enforced “No Drone Zone” restrictions designed to protect players, spectators, emergency responders, and critical infrastructure.
Drone flights within restricted areas surrounding Levi’s Stadium are prohibited during FIFA World Cup matches and official event activities.
Under federal stadium security rules, drones are prohibited:
• Within 3 nautical miles of qualifying stadiums
•Up to 3,000 feet above ground level
•Beginning 3 hours before and ending 3 hours after sporting events
These restrictions apply to:
•Recreational drones
•Commercial drone operations
•First-person-view drones
•Sub-250 gram drones
•Remote-controlled aircraft and unmanned aerial systems
Federal authorities will actively monitor restricted airspace using advanced detection and counter drone technologies.
Individuals operating drones in restricted areas may face:
•FAA civil penalties up to $75,000 per violation
•Federal criminal fines up to $100,000
•Arrest and criminal prosecution
•Immediate drone seizure and confiscation
•Suspension or revocation of FAA pilot certifications
•Potential imprisonment for serious offenses
Only specifically approved aircraft and drone operations coordinated through the FAA and public safety agencies will be permitted within restricted airspace. This includes:
•Law enforcement operations
•Emergency medical aircraft
•Military aircraft
•FAA-approved broadcast operations
•Authorized public safety drone missions
All pilots are responsible for reviewing current FAA airspace restrictions before operating any aircraft or drone.
Operators should review:
•FAA Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)
•NOTAM advisories
•FAA B4UFLY resources
•LAANC authorization systems
The Santa Clara Police Department thanks residents and visitors for their cooperation in helping maintain a safe and secure environment during FIFA World Cup events in our city.
See a drone breaking the rules? Report it to 911, on-site law enforcement, or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
MATCH DAYS SUBJECT TO AIRSPACE RESTRICTIONS:
•June 13
•June 16
•June 19
•June 22
•June 25
•July 1
