San Bernardino's Drone Rules: The Rules That Matter
Every city handles drone rules a little differently. In San Bernardino, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.
Commercial Drones
Commercial drone pilots in San Bernardino need an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, registered aircraft, liability insurance, and LAANC authorization for airspace near San Bernardino International Airport.
Key details: Certification: FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required. Registration: All commercial drones must be registered. Remote ID: Required for all compliant operations. Airport rule: LAANC authorization near SB International and Ontario. Insurance: 1 to 5 million dollars liability typical.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. San Bernardino actively enforces its commercial drones requirements.
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone pilots in San Bernardino must follow 49 USC 44809, stay below 400 feet, keep visual line of sight, and register drones over 0.55 pounds. City parks bar takeoff and landing without a permit.
Key details: Max altitude: 400 feet above ground level. Registration: Required for drones over 0.55 pounds. Airport rule: LAANC authorization needed near SB International. City parks: Takeoff and landing prohibited without permit. Privacy: No recording of people in private activity (Civil Code 1708.8).
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
The Bottom Line
San Bernardino's drone rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming San Bernardino is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects San Bernardino's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.