Drone Rules in Chico, CA (2026)
3 verified drone rules for Chico, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Chico has no standalone municipal drone ordinance for recreational hobbyists; FAA Part 107 and FAA recreational rules (49 USC §44809) govern airspace citywide. Local layer kicks in only at parks (CMC Title 12R, Bidwell Park) and on private property (trespass/nuisance).
Recreational drones in Chico
Some RestrictionsCommercial Drones
Commercial drone work in Chico requires an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate; the city does not issue separate commercial UAS permits. Operations on city-owned land (Bidwell Park, civic facilities) require advance written permission per CMC Title 12R; CSU Chico has its own UAS authorization process for campus.
Commercial drone operations in Chico
Some RestrictionsPark Drone Restrictions
City of Chico parks — including the 3,670-acre Bidwell Park — restrict drone operations under CMC Title 12R; advance written permission is required. CARD-managed facilities prohibit drones outright except by prior written agreement. Adjacent Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park (CDPR Superintendent Order 645-385) bans all UAS launches and landings.
Drones in Chico parks and Bidwell Park
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Butte County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Chico city rules.
Drone Rules in Butte County →