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Drone Rules

Drone Rules in Winston-Salem, NC: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

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

Recreational Drones

Recreational drone operators in Winston-Salem must comply with FAA Part 107 or the Recreational Exception rules. FAA TRUST certification and drone registration are required for craft over 0.55 lbs. Winston-Salem has no local drone ordinance, but launching from city parks requires permission.

Key details: TRUST Required: All recreational pilots. Registration: Drones over 0.55 lbs. KINT Airspace: LAANC required. City Parks: Permit needed. Altitude: 400 ft maximum.

Unauthorized drone flights in controlled airspace can trigger FAA civil penalties up to $27,500. State-level privacy violations under NCGS 15A-300.1 carry misdemeanor charges. Park violations can result in $100 civil penalties.

Commercial Drones

Commercial drone operations in Winston-Salem require FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification plus compliance with North Carolina NCDOT drone permit rules under NCGS 63-95. LAANC authorization is required near KINT and KGSO airports. Commercial flights in city parks require permits.

Key details: FAA Part 107: Required. NCDOT Permit: NCGS 63-95. LAANC: KINT and KGSO airspace. Max Altitude: 400 ft AGL. Park Operations: Permit required.

FAA Part 107 violations: up to $27,500 per incident. Operating without NCDOT permit: NCGS 63-95 civil penalty up to $5,000. Park violations: $100+ and permit revocation.

The Bottom Line

Winston-Salem'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 Winston-Salem is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Winston-Salem's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.