Is Drone Deer Recovery Legal in South Carolina? (2026 Rules)
South Carolina’s hunting regulations don’t have a rule that specifically allows or bans drone deer recovery. What the rules do say about deer, dogs, and tracking wounded deer.
2026-11-03
South Carolina doesn’t have a rule that specifically allows or bans drone deer recovery. We couldn’t find any drone rule in South Carolina’s hunting regulations for deer. Here’s what the rules do say about recovering deer.
What South Carolina’s rules say
The South Carolina hunting regulations don’t mention drones for hunting or recovering deer. Some related rules:
- Legal hunting time for deer is from one hour before official sunrise until one hour after official sunset (50-11-710).
- Dogs and deer: it’s unlawful to pursue deer with dogs in Game Zones 1 and 2 (50-11-310). Outside those zones, South Carolina is one of the few states that allows hunting deer with dogs.
Which animals does this cover?
South Carolina’s hunting rules don’t address drones for any species.
Tracking a wounded deer on WMA land
On wildlife management area (WMA) lands, the WMA regulations say:
“For the purposes of tracking a wounded deer, a hunter may use one dog which is kept on a leash.”
Before you fly
Because South Carolina’s rules don’t address drone recovery, check with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) before a drone recovery, especially on WMA or other public land, where other rules may apply. Pilots who charge for a search need an FAA Part 107 certificate. If South Carolina adopts a drone recovery rule, we’ll update this article.
Finding a pilot
Drone Deer Tracker is adding pilots in South Carolina. Check the map for the closest pilot to your hunt. For tips on what to tell the pilot, see how to find a drone deer recovery pilot fast.
Are you a thermal drone pilot in South Carolina? Apply to be listed so hunters near you can find and call you.
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 SCDNR to confirm it’s allowed.
Last checked November 2026 against the South Carolina hunting and WMA regulations. Rules can change, so check with the SCDNR before you hunt. This article is general information, not legal advice.