CA AB2148

Makes it unlawful for any person to operate or fly an unmanned aircraft system (drone) over lands or waters managed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife and Department of Parks and Recreation without authorization or exemption.

Exempts state agency operations, FAA-authorized commercial drone operations, and legitimate news-gathering activities from the prohibition.

Prohibits using unmanned aircraft systems to take or assist in taking fish or wildlife for sport purposes, including scouting, and classifies drones as motorized air vehicles subject to existing prohibitions on pursuing or herding birds and mammals.

Authorizes the Department of Fish and Wildlife and Department of Parks and Recreation to consider factors such as wildlife protection, sensitive species harm, disruption during breeding seasons, and operator safety when reviewing authorization requests.

Violations are misdemeanors or infractions; no local reimbursement is required under the California Constitution since the law creates new crimes rather than imposing new local duties.