{"id":352503,"date":"2016-04-04T10:42:05","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:42:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/drone-laws-by-state.html"},"modified":"2025-04-11T09:26:17","modified_gmt":"2025-04-11T14:26:17","slug":"drone-laws-by-state","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/drone-laws-by-state.html","title":{"rendered":"Drone Laws by State"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Drone Laws by State<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Hannah Hilst<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Amber Sheppard, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Drone laws vary by state, with federal FAA regulations setting the foundation. States often regulate drone use for law enforcement, privacy, and specific activities like hunting. Federal law requires FAA registration and a Remote Pilot Certificate for commercial drone use. State-specific rules may include restrictions near critical infrastructure, schools, or public events. It’s essential to understand both federal and state laws before flying drones.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Consumer and commercial drones are more accessible than ever. But flying a drone requires you to know and obey state laws like driving a car.<\/p>\n

People often use drones to take aerial photos and videos. But the government must balance allowing hobbies and business interests with protecting public safety.<\/p>\n

Most states have passed laws regulating the use of drones, but each state’s laws are different. You’ll need to learn the rules for drone flying whenever you move to a new state or travel.<\/p>\n

Federal Laws vs. State Laws<\/h2>\n

Most drone rules come from\u00a0federal drone regulations<\/a>. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has authority over the airspace in all states. As a result, states’ ability to create laws for in-air activities, such as where you can or can’t fly, is limited.<\/p>\n

The FAA also manages nationwide drone registration and licensing through the\u00a0FAADroneZone<\/a>. For example, you need a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA to fly a drone commercially anywhere in the United States. Recreational drone pilots must also pass the FAA’s basic safety and knowledge test.<\/p>\n

Common Ways States Regulate Drones<\/h2>\n

Alongside FAA regulations, states often create drone laws for the following topics:<\/p>\n