With D.C.'s strict airspace rules, don't expect drones to pop up

The big picture: Drone mania is gripping cities in New Jersey and other parts of the Northeast, and people have also reported mysterious sightings in Virginia Beach and across Southwest Virginia.

Catch up fast: Airspace rules are extra strict within a 15-mile radius of Reagan National Airport.

• It is prohibited to fly an unmanned aircraft inside that ring without specific FAA authorization and waivers.
• The FAA says flying a drone for any use between 15 and 30 miles from D.C. is allowed only under certain conditions, including the aircraft must weigh under 55 pounds and fly below 400 feet.

"​​Rules put in place after the 9/11 attacks establish 'national defense airspace' over the area and limit aircraft operations to those with an FAA and Transportation Security Administration authorization," the FAA website says. "Violators face stiff fines and criminal penalties."

The intrigue: The drone conundrum is confusing many as lawmakers demand answers.

• Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan claimed in a video he saw drones in the sky above his house, about 25 miles from D.C. But others pointed out his footage was of star systems.