76-13-214. Obstruction of aerial wildfire suppression activities -- penalty -- exceptions. (1) A person may not obstruct, impede, prevent, or otherwise interfere with lawful aerial wildfire suppression activities by any means, including by the use of an unmanned aerial vehicle system.

(2) A person who violates subsection (1) is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine of not more than $1,500.

(3) (a) Subsection (1) does not apply to the operation of an unmanned aerial vehicle system conducted by a unit or agency of the United States government or of a state, tribal, or local government, including any individual conducting an operation pursuant to a contract or other agreement entered into with the unit or agency, for the purpose of protecting the public safety and welfare, including firefighting, law enforcement, or emergency response.

(b) Subsection (2) does not limit other remedies available for damages to any person or property or the recovery of wildfire suppression costs caused by a person who violates subsection (1).