Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Use of Remote Controlled Aircraft or "Drones"

The use of remote controlled model aircraft or “drones” is prohibited at Connecticut State Parks, State Forests or other lands under the control of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, unless specifically authorized by the Commissioner in a Special Use License.

Remote control aircraft and drones fly at low altitudes, and rely on a fuel or battery motor to stay aloft. Failure of the motor or other equipment will result in an uncontrolled descent, which could result in injury to others or damage to state or personal property. Additionally, the operation of these aircraft by an untrained pilot also creates risk of injury and/or property damage. Current licensing requirements for recreational drone pilots do not have any provisions to test for pilot competence, and so there is no reliable mechanism for the DEEP to be assured of pilot ability to safely operate on our public lands. This type of potentially hazardous activity is prohibited by our Park and Forest Regulations (Regulations of CT State Agencies §23-4-1 (o)).

The operation of these aircraft are noisy.  Activities that create noise which infringes on the ability of other park goers to enjoy their visit to the park or forest is prohibited by our regulations at §23-4-1(x).  Impacts of this noise on wildlife in our parks and forests is another concern.  Activities that are disruptive to wildlife are prohibited by our regulations at §23-4-1(b). 

If you have questions or need additional information on Connecticut State Parks and Forests, please contact the State Parks Division by e-mail at deep.stateparks@ct.gov or by phone at 860-424-3200.

Content Last Updated December 2022