Is Drone Deer Recovery Legal in Minnesota? (2026 Rules)
No. The Minnesota DNR says using a drone to recover dead or wounded game counts as taking game, which isn’t allowed. What the DNR and state law say.
2026-11-03
No. Minnesota does not allow drones to recover deer, whether the deer is dead or wounded. Here’s what the Minnesota DNR says.
What Minnesota says
The Minnesota DNR’s guidance, Drone use while hunting, says it plainly:
“In Minnesota, it is not legal to use drones to take big or small game, which includes using drones to recover dead or wounded game.”
The DNR points to these state laws:
- Minnesota Statute 97B.085, Subd. 1, which prohibits using radio equipment to take big or small game. Per the DNR, “taking includes assisting in the take.”
- Minnesota Statutes 97B.081 and 97B.086, which prohibit shining wild animals using drones, and using drones with thermal imaging or night vision while taking wild animals.
Which animals does this cover?
Minnesota’s DNR says the ban covers big or small game. In Minnesota, that includes deer, black bear, elk, and wild turkey.
Could the law change?
A bill has been proposed in the Minnesota Legislature to allow drone recovery of big game, but it hasn’t passed. If Minnesota changes its law, we’ll update this article.
Hunting in another state?
Several states allow drone recovery, each with its own conditions. See Wisconsin (case by case) and our other state guides, and find a pilot on the map.
Other states: see drone deer recovery laws by state.
Verify before you fly
Drone rules change, and how they apply can depend on your situation. Before any drone recovery, contact the Minnesota DNR to confirm it’s allowed.
Last checked November 2026 against the Minnesota DNR’s “Drone use while hunting” guidance and Minnesota Statutes 97B.085, 97B.081, and 97B.086. Rules can change, so check with the Minnesota DNR before you hunt. This article is general information, not legal advice.