You may have heard the phrase “small plane, big sky”—a reminder that the skies are vast and aircraft encounters are rare. But with drones becoming more common in lower-altitude airspace, especially in populated areas like California, those odds tighten. Understanding the rules helps ensure you can fly freely and responsibly while reducing risk to others in the air and on the ground.
Whether you're just getting into drones or already flying commercially, California is a fantastic place to take to the skies—offering stunning landscapes, rich infrastructure, and endless opportunities. But with those opportunities come responsibilities.
Rather than seeing regulations as barriers, think of them as guideposts that help drone pilots fly safely, protect people and wildlife, and avoid unnecessary legal trouble. Understanding the rules builds confidence and freedom to operate—whether you're capturing content, inspecting assets, or exploring new areas.
This guide breaks down the major federal and California-specific laws affecting drone operations and explains how to navigate them with the help of tools like LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability), B4UFLY, and DroneZone, which allow you to view airspace restrictions and request approvals when needed.
FAA Rules: The Federal Foundation for All Drone Flights
The FAA governs national airspace through 14 CFR Part 107, which outlines the requirements for commercial drone operators. Here are the most relevant rules:
Certification and Registration
14 CFR § 107.12 – "A person may not manipulate the flight controls of a small UAS unless: (1) That person has a remote pilot certificate with a small UAS rating issued under this part."
14 CFR § 107.13 – Drones must be registered with the FAA and properly marked with a registration number.
Summary: These rules ensure all operators are properly trained and accountable for their aircraft.
Interpretation: If you're planning to fly commercially—even for real estate, inspections, or agriculture—you must pass the FAA knowledge test and register your drone. You can study online and register quickly through the FAA's DroneZone Portal.
Daylight vs. Nighttime Operations
The FAA defines operational limits under 14 CFR § 107.29.
Daylight and Civil Twilight
§ 107.29(a) – "A small unmanned aircraft may be operated during civil twilight if the small unmanned aircraft has lighted anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles and has a flash rate sufficient to avoid a collision."
- Daylight: Sunrise to sunset
- Civil twilight: 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset with anti-collision lighting
Summary: Drone flights are permitted from sunrise to sunset by default. Flights just before or after those times require anti-collision lights.
Interpretation: Want to capture that early morning or late evening light? As long as you add strobe lighting and your drone is visible from 3 miles away, you’re good to go.
Nighttime Flights
§ 107.29(b) – "No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft system at night unless: (1) The remote pilot in command has completed the updated knowledge test or training required under § 107.65 after April 6, 2021; and (2) The small unmanned aircraft has lighted anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles and a flash rate sufficient to avoid a collision."
Summary: Night flights are now allowed without a waiver, but there are strict requirements.
Interpretation: While you no longer need to apply for a waiver to fly at night, you must meet two key conditions: (1) complete the FAA's updated night operations training or knowledge test, and (2) equip your drone with an FAA-approved anti-collision light that is visible for at least 3 statute miles and has a proper flash rate. Without these, night flight remains prohibited. This clarity is important for ensuring safety and legality during nighttime operations."No person may operate a small unmanned aircraft system at night unless:
(1) The remote pilot in command has completed the updated knowledge test or training required under § 107.65 after April 6, 2021; and (2) The small unmanned aircraft has lighted anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles and a flash rate sufficient to avoid a collision."
Summary: Night flights are now allowed with the right training and lighting. Operators must complete updated testing and use proper safety equipment.
Interpretation: You no longer need a waiver to fly at night—but you do need to update your certification (via an online FAA course) and equip your drone with bright strobes. This opens new possibilities for low-traffic flights, nighttime inspections, or creative filming.
Navigating Airspace: Tools to Help You Stay Legal
Understanding controlled airspace is easier than ever with modern tools:
- LAANC: Submit real-time airspace authorization requests directly from apps like Aloft or AirMap.
- B4UFLY: A free FAA mobile app that shows where it's safe to fly.
- DroneZone: The FAA's official platform for drone registration, waiver requests, and pilot certification.
Interpretation: Before each flight, check your airspace and submit requests for controlled zones through LAANC—it takes minutes and keeps your flight legal.
California State Drone Laws
In addition to FAA rules, California enforces laws governing drone operations with a focus on privacy, emergency response, and restricted areas.
Privacy Protection
AB 856 (2015) – "A person is liable for constructive invasion of privacy when the person attempts to capture, in a manner highly offensive to a reasonable person, any type of visual image... through the use of any device... regardless of whether there is a physical trespass."
Summary: This law prohibits using drones to spy on people in private settings—even without physically entering their property.
Interpretation: Don’t fly your drone to peek over someone’s fence or into windows—if someone has a reasonable expectation of privacy, you could be held legally responsible.
Emergency Interference
AB 1680 (2016) – "A person shall not knowingly impede any emergency personnel in the performance of their duties... including operating a drone in a manner that impedes the work of emergency personnel."
SB 807 (2016) – "An emergency responder shall not be liable for any damage to an unmanned aircraft... if the damage was caused while the emergency responder was providing, and the unmanned aircraft was interfering with, the operation... of emergency services."
Summary: These laws penalize drone interference with first responders and protect emergency crews who damage drones during response.
Interpretation: Stay away from accident scenes, wildfires, or law enforcement activity. Your drone can be taken down—and you can face charges—if it gets in the way.
Restricted Airspace Over Prisons
SB 1355 (2018) – "A person who knowingly and intentionally operates an unmanned aircraft system on or above the grounds of a state prison, a jail, or a juvenile hall... is guilty of an infraction."
Summary: Flying drones over correctional facilities is prohibited and punishable by fines.
Interpretation: Even accidental flights over a jail or prison can lead to legal trouble. Check airspace maps beforehand and stay well clear.
State Parks and Wildlife Areas
CCR Title 14, § 4351 – "Motorized equipment shall not be used within state wilderness, cultural preserves, and natural preserves except as authorized by the director."
Fish & Game Code § 10501.5 – Prohibits drone flights below 3,000 feet over protected wildlife areas such as the Sespe Condor Sanctuary.
Summary: These laws protect California's most sensitive natural areas. Drones are banned or heavily restricted in many parks and preserves.
Interpretation: If you're near a California State Park or wildlife sanctuary, assume drone use is restricted unless signage or online guidance says otherwise. Always research ahead.
Local Ordinances: Varying City by City
Municipalities in California may enact their own drone restrictions. Examples include:
- Hermosa Beach: Requires permits and prohibits recording individuals without consent.
- Calabasas: Restricts flights near schools and public events.
- Yorba Linda: Limits takeoffs within 25 feet of people or 500 feet of gatherings.
Summary: Local laws vary significantly—always check with city or county offices before flying.
Interpretation: What’s legal in one town may be banned in the next. When in doubt, check the city’s municipal code or call city hall for clarification.
Additional Federal and State Considerations
Critical Infrastructure Restrictions
18 U.S. Code § 1387 – Prohibits operating a drone over certain critical infrastructure facilities such as refineries, power plants, and airports.
Summary: Flying over key utility sites and government infrastructure is restricted.
Interpretation: Always verify whether your location is a critical site—even if it’s not marked on popular apps. You can find this information on sectional charts or the FAA’s UAS Facility Maps. If needed, reroute your flight or plan to capture imagery from outside the restricted area.
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)
Summary: TFRs are temporary restrictions for special events, emergencies, or VIP movement.
Interpretation: Always check NOTAMs or tools like B4UFLY for current restrictions. Flying near a stadium on game day or during wildfire operations without checking first could result in fines or enforcement. If a TFR is in place, delay your flight or request special FAA authorization.
Counter-UAS and Enforcement Zones
Summary: Some areas (federal buildings, national events) are equipped with drone detection or defense systems.
Interpretation: If you’re near a sensitive facility, even a legal flight could trigger countermeasures. Respect posted signs and no-drone symbols. Plan flights away from high-security zones, and avoid loitering near federal or defense-related property.
School Zones
Summary: There is no federal law against flying near schools, but many school districts and municipalities restrict it.
Interpretation: Before flying near any school or campus, get written permission or consult local ordinances. This is especially important during school hours or events when people are present.
Surveillance & Harassment Laws
Summary: Using drones to follow individuals or vehicles may violate stalking or harassment laws—even if done in public.
Interpretation: Avoid repeatedly tracking or filming a person or vehicle unless it’s for a clearly lawful, documented purpose (e.g., permitted utility work, public event coverage). Always respect people’s privacy and avoid confrontations.
Summary: What These Rules Mean for You
Whether you're a drone operator, property owner, contractor, or manager, understanding California's drone regulations helps ensure safe, legal operations and avoids legal complications. Federal and state rules often overlap, but California adds specific protections related to privacy, wildlife, and public safety.
Fortunately, tools like LAANC, B4UFLY, and DroneZone make it easier than ever to stay compliant.
Important Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Because local ordinances vary by city and county—and drone laws continue to evolve—it is always your responsibility to verify applicable rules in your area before flying. When in doubt, consult official FAA sources, state regulations, or local government offices to ensure your operations remain safe and lawful.
Know the rules, use the tools, and enjoy flying with confidence.