Where to Fly Drones in the USA
Laws & Rules by State (2026)

Yes, if you fly commercially you need an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Recreational pilots must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Both require registration of any drone over 0.55 lbs (250g) with the FAA.

No. The National Park Service (NPS) has banned the launch, landing, and operation of unmanned aircraft in all national parks since 2014, unless you obtain a rare special use permit for research or filming purposes.

The FAA limits drone flights to a maximum altitude of 400 feet above ground level (AGL). In controlled airspace, you must obtain authorization through LAANC or a DroneZone waiver before flying.

LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) is an automated system that lets drone pilots get near-real-time airspace authorization in controlled airspace. You apply through approved apps like B4UFLY, Aloft, or AirMap.

Under Part 107, you can fly over people only if your drone is in Category 1-4 (under 0.55 lbs, or has an FAA-accepted declaration of compliance). Flying over moving vehicles requires a waiver unless your drone meets these categories.

Penalties include FAA civil fines up to $27,500, criminal fines up to $250,000, and up to 3 years in prison for the most severe violations. States may impose additional penalties under their own drone laws.

Yes. While the FAA sets federal rules that apply everywhere, individual states can add their own laws covering privacy, surveillance, critical infrastructure, and local no-fly zones. Always check both federal and state rules before flying.

Yes, since 2021 the FAA allows night flights under Part 107 without a waiver, provided the drone has anti-collision lights visible for 3 statute miles. Recreational pilots can also fly at night with proper lighting and TRUST certification.