Is Drone Flying Legal in Mississippi? (2026)
Yes — Drone Flying is legal in Mississippi as of 2026.
Law changed in 2021: A 2021 bill (SB2262) was introduced to further regulate unmanned aircraft systems, but it did not pass. The state's purchasing laws for drones were updated in 2024.
Quick Answer
Drone Flying is legal in Mississippi. Mississippi Code Section 97-29-61 addresses drone-related privacy concerns, making it illegal to use a drone to conduct surveillance of individuals on private property. Recreational drone pilots must pass the TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) and follow FAA rules including flying below 400 feet, maintaining visual line of sight, and avoiding restricted airspace. Commercial operators need an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Mississippi does not require state-level drone registration beyond the federal FAA requirement.
- Age restriction: FAA requires operators to be at least 16 years old for Part 107 (commercial)
- Quantity limit: 55 pounds
What the Law Says
Mississippi has no specific state-level laws regarding drone operation.
— FAA UAS Regulations
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State Drone Rules | Legal to own and operate drones in Mississippi. FAA registration required for drones weighing between 0.55 and 55 pounds. No state registration required. |
| FAA/Federal Rules | Legal to sell drones in Mississippi. No state licensing required for drone retailers. |
| Violation Penalties | Using a drone for surveillance on private property is a misdemeanor under MS Code 97-29-61, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $500 fine. FAA violations carry separate federal penalties up to $27,500 for civil violations. |
| Pilot Age Requirement | FAA requires operators to be at least 16 years old for Part 107 (commercial). Recreational flyers under 13 must be supervised by someone 13 or older. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
A 2021 bill (SB2262) was introduced to further regulate unmanned aircraft systems, but it did not pass. The state's purchasing laws for drones were updated in 2024.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is focused on the state's voyeurism statute, which makes it a felony to use a drone to spy on someone. State agencies are also required to purchase drones from domestic manufacturers.
A common mistake is using a drone for any form of surveillance, which can lead to serious felony charges. Another is flying in restricted airspace without authorization.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Mississippi. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Drone Flying is legal in Mississippi. You can fly it without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Mississippi 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. Mississippi falls in the LEGAL 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 Mississippi?
What are the drone laws in Mississippi?
What is the pilot age requirement for flying a drone in Mississippi?
Does the law on flying a drone change at the Mississippi border?
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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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