Drones interfering with Sand Fire battling efforts

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (KABC) -- While attempting to battle the Sand Fire that has burned more than 20,000 acres and destroyed more than a dozen homes, firefighters have had to battle an outside element: drones.

The U.S. Forest Service said drones have been interfering with firefighting efforts against the blaze in Santa Clarita.

Officials can be forced to call off water drops used to combat wildfires because of unmanned aircraft spotted nearby.

MORE: Sand Fire scorches more than 20,000 acres, destroys more than a dozen homes

In recent years, fire officials launched a campaign with the saying, "If you fly, we can't."

Authorities warned that anyone interfering with firefighting operations could face criminal charges.