Is Drone Flying Legal in California? (2026)
Partially — Drone Flying is legal with restrictions in California as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: An August 2025 California Supreme Court ruling requires police to release drone footage, increasing transparency. Assembly Bill 2113, introduced in the 2025-2026 session, aims to restrict drone use near large ticketed events.
Quick Answer
Drone flying is legal in California but subject to both FAA regulations and additional state laws. An August 2025 California Supreme Court ruling requires police to release drone footage, increasing transparency.
- Age restriction: 13+ for FAA registration
What the Law Says
California law imposes significant civil fines for using a drone to invade someone's privacy. Flying an unregistered drone can also lead to federal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
— FAA UAS / State Drone Laws
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Drone Rules | Legal with FAA registration + state restrictions |
| FAA/Federal Rules | Legal to sell |
| Violation Penalties | Violations can result in FAA fines up to $27,500 civil or $250,000 criminal, plus state penalties. |
| Pilot Age Requirement | 13+ for FAA registration |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
An August 2025 California Supreme Court ruling requires police to release drone footage, increasing transparency. Assembly Bill 2113, introduced in the 2025-2026 session, aims to restrict drone use near large ticketed events.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is strict regarding privacy, with fines for invasion of privacy ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Flying over state highways without a Caltrans permit is also a point of enforcement.
Common violations include flying in state parks where drones are generally banned, operating over state highways without a permit, and disturbing wildlife.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across California. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Drone Flying is legal with restrictions in California. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
California vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, flying a drone is fully legal in 1 states, restricted in 49, and illegal in 0. California falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Drone Flying:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to fly Drone Flying in California?
What are the restrictions on flying a drone in California?
What mistakes do people make with flying a drone in California?
What is the pilot age requirement for flying a drone in California?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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