Colorado Springs's Drone Rules: The Rules That Matter

If you live in Colorado Springs or are thinking about moving there, drone rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Colorado Springs has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of drone rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Recreational Drones

Recreational drone operation in Colorado Springs is heavily restricted due to the presence of multiple military installations including Fort Carson Army Post, Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Much of the city's airspace falls within restricted or controlled zones where drone flights require specific authorization. All recreational drone pilots must follow FAA Part 107 registration requirements and TRUST certification. The city also regulates drone operations in parks. Flying over military installations is a federal offense.

Key details: Military Airspace: Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, USAFA. FAA Registration: Required for drones over 0.55 lbs. TRUST Test: Required for all recreational pilots. Restricted Zones: Extensive restricted airspace over military bases. Parks: City park drone restrictions apply.

FAA violations: $1,000 to $27,500 per incident. Local park violations: $50 to $500. Reckless operation near airports: criminal penalties.

This is one of the stricter rules in Colorado Springs's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Commercial Drones

Commercial drone operations in Colorado Springs require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and are subject to the same extensive military airspace restrictions as recreational flights. Operators must obtain LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) authorization or FAA waivers to fly in controlled airspace, which covers much of the city due to Peterson Space Force Base and other military facilities. Commercial operators must also carry liability insurance and comply with any applicable city permitting requirements for filming or commercial activities in public spaces.

Key details: FAA License: Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required. Airspace Auth: LAANC or FAA waiver for controlled airspace. Military Zones: Restricted airspace over multiple bases. Insurance: Liability insurance recommended/required. City Permits: May need filming or commercial activity permits.

Operating commercially without Part 107: FAA fines up to $32,666. Local permit violations: $100 to $1,000. Unauthorized airspace entry: federal criminal penalties.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Colorado Springs actively enforces its commercial drones requirements.

The Bottom Line

Colorado Springs is tougher than many cities when it comes to drone rules. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Colorado Springs, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Colorado Springs can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.