California is known for its laws that give plenty of freedoms to its inhabitants, but here we’re interested in drone laws and if you’re as freedom-based as the rest of them. Unfortunately, what applies in California might not (and probably will not) apply to other States within the United States of America since every state has a different set of rules when it comes to drone flying.
Here you’ll find everything you need to know about drone laws in California.
Can I Have A Drone In California?
Drones are allowed in California for recreational and commercial use, subject to FAA regulations and flight controls put in place by local governments, and this is the most often scenario when it comes to drone regulations in the US, and is one of the only common laws related to drone flying.
It’s amazing that The State of California allows you to use drones for both recreational as well as commercial use. Although this is common, there are certain states that don’t allow for both of these uses.
If you’re not using a drone for these purposes, and are some instances where you can’t have a drone, for example - if you’re using it for espionage or illegal data collection, you won’t be able to have a drone in California.
What Type Of Drones Does The California Legislature Stand Behind?
California as a State does not recognize specific types of drones, but there may be cities with legislation that fully defines what a drone is through an official explanation.
Recreational Drone Flying In California
Recreational drone flying in California is allowed. There are a few cities that limit it such as the City of La Mesa, the City of Malibu, The Calabasas City, etc…
In almost all cases these cities have different classifications and limitations to your drones, so be careful. It’s best that you check with your local police station or sheriff’s office to get additional information related to this topic.
People that work there are almost always more than happy to help you educate yourself on drone laws while showing care towards local laws and not breaking them.
Do I Have To Register My Drone In California?
Yes.
You need to register your drone in the state of California, but you should do one thing before that. You should take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of test passage at all times while flying.
Secondly, you should have a current registration, mark (PDF) your drones on the outside with the registration number, and carry proof of registration with you. For recreational flyers, the FAA does not require you to register or mark a drone that weighs less than 0.55 lbs, or 250 grams.
Can I Still Get Penalties If I Use A Drone In California?
As with all things, there are certain scenarios where you can get a penalty for not flying your drone in propper fashion.
Firstly, you have to do it for recreational purposes. You also have to follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized Community Based Organization. You should also keep your drone within the visual line of sight or use a co-located visual observer and in direct communication with you.
Your drone should give way to and not interfere with crewed aircraft. Also, you should fly your drone at or below 400′ in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and E) with prior authorization by using LAANC or DroneZone.
Source: https://faadronezone.faa.gov/#/
In addition, fly your drone at or below 400 feet in Class G (uncontrolled) airspace.
Do not dangerously operate your drone!
What If I Want To Fly My Commercial Drone in California?
In order for you to fly a commercial drone in The State of California, you have to check a few boxes.
Firstly, you have to make sure you understand what is and is not allowed under Part 107 rules. Learn the rest of the rules that limit or potentially prohibit you from drone flying in an area that you’re planning on doing so in.
Secondly, become an FAA-Certified drone pilot by passing the Knowledge Test. For this, you have to be of the age of 16 and above, and be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
And lastly, register your drone. Registration in the State of California costs $5 and lasts for three entire years.
