No Drones or Selfie Sticks Allowed for Pope's US Visit

Washington: Drones, big or small, and selfie sticks are banned during Pope Francis's visit to the United States next week.

Here are some of the rules covering his September 22-27 visit: 'Leave Your Drone at Home'

Papal host cities Washington, New York and Philadelphia have all been declared "No Drone Zones," according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

"If you plan to attend any of the papal visit events, please leave your drone at home," FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said in a statement.

"Anyone flying a drone within the designated restricted areas may be subject to civil and criminal charges."

Any unmanned aircraft, even remotely controlled model planes, are not allowed.

The FAA is currently drafting regulations on small drones, amid concerns about personal privacy.

No Selfie Sticks or Plastic Guns

Selfie sticks, telescoping poles that can be attached to a smartphone to take wider angle photographs, are also forbidden during gatherings linked to the pope's visit.

Firearms are of course banned, but so are plastic guns and any other toy made to look like a weapon, along with laser pointers.

Animals and large-scale religious statues also must stay home.

Fasting for Climate

Under two large, igloo-shaped tents planted in a square near the White House, six Global Catholic Climate Movement activists are fasting for 10 days to raise awareness about climate change and to back Pope Francis's efforts on the issue.

"We need to make changes in our lifestyles," said Patrick Carolan, executive director of the Franciscan Action Network.

"Just stop being such consumers. We have to really live simply, stop using so much fossil fuels, (moving) toward renewable energy, eat less meat."

But he acknowledged the task was "extremely difficult" in the United States, where climate skeptics have a strong voice.