Final rule · 2026-13609

Counter-UAS Authority for State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial Law Enforcement and Correctional Agencies

In this interim final rule ("IFR"), the Department of Justice ("DOJ") and the Department of Homeland Security ("DHS") (collectively, "the Departments") codify the framework for implementing the SAFER SKIES Act, which authorizes State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement or correctional ("SLTT") agencies to conduct counter-unmanned aircraft system ("C-UAS") operations. This framework governs training and certification (including a two-tiered structure for detection and warning operations and for mitigation operations), authorized technologies, spectrum coordination, airspace approval, real-time air traffic control notification, mitigation reporting, privacy protections, and compliance requirements for SLTT agencies in relation to the exercise of C-UAS authority.