Local Drone Laws in Florida
These are drone laws that apply only to certain regions, cities, or counties within the state of Florida, and were created by various authorities within the state. This is a partial list, please review your county ordinances to check for the most current drone laws in your area.
Town of Bonita Springs—Municipal Law // 2016
This city ordinance limits the flying of drones at Community Park in Bonita Springs to times when the fields of the park are unoccupied. This city ordinance also makes it illegal to fly within 25 feet of people, power lines, buildings, or light fixtures.
City of Miami—Municipal Law // 2016
This city ordinance prohibits the use of drones over or within a half-mile radius of sporting events or large-venue events, including but not limited to Bayfront Park, Marlins Ballpark, Miami Marine Stadium, Calle Ocho Festival, and any other public parks or facilities during special events. This city ordinance also prohibits drones from being equipped with any type of detachable cargo or carrying any type of weapon, and establishes a requirement that a city permit is required for certain “drone-related activities.”
Town of Defuniak Springs—Municipal Law // 2016
This city ordinance prohibits drones from being flown over public or private property without the owner’s consent. This ordinance also requires that commercial drone pilots register with the town police department before doing any kind of commercial work using drones in the city.
City of Orlando—Municipal Law // 2016
This city ordinance places restrictions on flying drones within 500 feet of city-owned parks, schools, and venues such as the Amway Center, Camping World Stadium and Harry P. Leu Gardens. This ordinance also places restrictions on the use of drones within 500 feet of gatherings with more than 1,000 people. A permit is required to fly in these areas, which costs $20 per flight or $150 annually, and those caught in violation of this ordinance will have to pay fines between $200 and $400.
Pinellas County—Code of Ordinances // 2018
This county ordinance prohibits drone operators from taking off or landing a drone in or on any county-owned or managed land, except for purposes of public safety where written permission has been obtained from the administrator or designee.
Lake County—Code of Ordinances // 2001
This county ordinance prohibits drone operators from taking off or landing a drone on any county-owned land that is listed as a non-recreation area or in areas that specifically restrict the operation of drones unless prior permission has been granted by the director or designee.
The University of Tampa—UAV & Drone Policy // 2015
This campus policy restricts any drone operations within or over University-owned property, except when prior authorization is granted. The operation of drones will only be considered for the airspace directly over Plant Park. More information about the authorization process can be found in the link above.
Canaveral Port Authority—Unmanned Systems (Drone) Policy
This policy prohibits the operation of a drone on any CPA property without prior authorization. Requests for authorization shall be made to CPA Public Safety & Security 48 hours in advance of the intended start of any unmanned system operation. The online application form can be found in the link above.
