How Salt Lake City Handles Drone Rules: A Practical Guide
If you live in Salt Lake City or are thinking about moving there, drone rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Salt Lake City has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of drone rules, and some of them might surprise you.
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone use in Salt Lake City is governed by FAA rules and Utah state law; flying over city parks or near the airport is restricted.
Key details: Fact: FAA TRUST test and registration required. Fact: LAANC authorization needed in controlled airspace. Fact: No flying over city parks without permission. Fact: 400-foot altitude ceiling. Fact: No flying over emergency scenes.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Salt Lake City actively enforces its recreational drones requirements.
Commercial Drones
Commercial drone operators must hold an FAA Part 107 certificate, secure LAANC authorization in SLC airspace, and obtain a city business license for drone services.
Key details: Fact: FAA Part 107 certification required. Fact: LAANC or waiver in controlled airspace. Fact: SLC business license for commercial services. Fact: Film permit required for city property. Fact: No flights over people without compliant aircraft.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Salt Lake City actively enforces its commercial drones requirements.
The Bottom Line
Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
These rules come from Salt Lake City's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.