Claire ReidC. A. Bridges
Some of the drones, or multiple sightings of the same drone, have been spotted over military installations and other sensitive sites such as President-elect Donald Trump's golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey. Concern over the drones led to an investigation involving multiple police agencies and even the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Newark, USA TODAY reported.
Law enforcement has said the drones aren't a "known threat to public safety" and do not appear to be from a foreign country or entity.
Still, some residents are worried about the drones. And while the mysterious drones haven't been a reported problem here in Wisconsin, their presence out east may lead people to wonder: Can you shoot down a drone?
Can you shoot down drones in Wisconsin?
No, shooting down a hovering drone is illegal, not only in Wisconsin but also nationwide. The FAA says shooting any aircraft — including drones — is illegal.
Only law enforcement authorities can take action against drones, said Ryan Calo, a University of Washington law professor and robotics law expert.
Also, shooting down a drone can be dangerous. The unmanned aircraft could crash and cause damage to people or property on the ground or collide with other objects in the air. You could also be responsible for civil damages, according to Calo.
Earlier this year, a man in Florida learned that after shooting down a Walmart delivery drone flying over his home. He was charged with shooting at an aircraft, criminal mischief damage over $1,000 and discharging a firearm in public or residential property, according to the Daytona Beach News-Journal.
Are drones legal in Wisconsin?
Yes, drones are legal for recreational and many other uses in Wisconsin.
Some federal drone laws apply everywhere. Commercial drone pilots or government employees, such as first responders, must get a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA and follow the requirements of the FAA's Part 107 Small UAS Rule (Part 107). The FAA also has a list of the many airspace restrictions affecting all drone pilots in the United States.
Recreational drone pilots must take the FAA's Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), follow FAA recreational model aircraft rules and register drones if they weigh more than 0.55 pounds. They also must comply with line-of-sight restrictions and other rules.
Drones are prohibited in certain places, such as Wisconsin state parks. The best resource to use when determining where you can fly a drone is the FAA's B4UFLY mobile app or desktop site. B4UFLY provides an up-to-date map showing controlled airspace, restricted areas and temporary flight restrictions. More information on B4UFLY can be found here.
USA TODAY reporter Jessica Guynn contributed to this report.
More:Drone sightings reported over New Jersey, now FBI involved. Here's what we know so far
More:Where can I fly my drone in Milwaukee? A guide to drone laws and restrictions.
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