What is Section 99.7 (special security instructions)?
14 CFR § 99.7 is the FAA regulation creating standing security-related airspace restrictions, including the famous stadium TFR over major sporting events. Often the basis cited when you see 'no drones' signage at a venue.
§ 99.7 grants the FAA authority to issue 'special security instructions' affecting airspace. The most-cited application is the stadium TFR — a permanent, automatic airspace restriction that activates 1 hour before to 1 hour after MLB, NFL, NCAA D-I football, and major motorsports events within 3 nautical miles of the venue, surface to 3,000 ft AGL.
Other § 99.7 applications include: temporary flight restrictions around critical infrastructure, certain federal buildings, and state-level requests honored by the FAA. The DC Special Flight Rules Area / Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) is partly enforced via § 99.7.
What this means for pilots
When you see 'no drones, FAA § 99.7' signage at a venue, that's the legal basis. The rule applies to drone operators directly — flying into a § 99.7 area is a federal violation regardless of the pilot's intent.
FAQ
Is the stadium TFR really automatic?
Yes. Unlike most TFRs that require a NOTAM each time, the § 99.7 stadium TFR activates by event schedule without an individual NOTAM.
What stadiums are covered?
MLB regular season and postseason. NFL regular season and postseason. NCAA D-I football regular season and bowl games. Major motorsports (NASCAR Cup, IndyCar, F1).
What about NBA, NHL, MLS?
Not covered by § 99.7. Indoor sports and lower-attendance leagues aren't included.
Related terms
FAA regulations change. Verify current rules at faa.gov/uas before relying on this article for flight planning. Altoa is not the FAA.