How States Are Shaping Drone Regulation

By MATTHEW WEISSMAN

Throughout the United States, all drone pilots must follow certain federal restrictions set by the FAA, like maintaining a maximum altitude of 400 feet, having a remote ID, and obtaining certifications for both recreational and commercial pilots. But many state and local governments have adopted more restrictive rules that go further. For example, Florida restricts the use of drones for surveillance of private property, California allows lawsuits for drone-related privacy violations, Connecticut prohibits photographing certain infrastructure without permission, and Utah has strict rules regarding correctional facilities and wildfire response. New York City has extremely tough restrictions, making it illegal to fly in almost all areas without special permission.

While federal laws lay an important foundation for the nation, the rapidly growing list of state and local laws raises questions. As drone technology becomes more commonplace, policymakers should decide how much authority states should have to regulate drones and work together to both make laws more uniform, clarify state vs. federal responsibilities for drone laws, and educate the public on these rules.