Drone Rules in Columbus, OH (2026)
2 verified drone rules for Columbus, Ohio, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone use in Columbus is governed primarily by FAA regulations and Ohio state law. Ohio HB 292 (effective 2025) establishes state-level drone regulations. Recreational flyers must follow FAA rules including registration for drones over 0.55 lbs, maintaining visual line of sight, and flying below 400 feet. Columbus parks generally allow drone use at the discretion of park rangers.
Columbus Recreational Drone Flying Rules
Some RestrictionsFAA — Recreational Flyers (USC 44809)
What are the Rules for Recreational Flyers? The Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft ( USC 44809 ) is the law that describes how, when, and where you can fly drones for recreational purposes. Following these rules helps keep people, your drone and our airspace safe: Fly only for recreational purposes (personal enjoyment). Follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-reco...
Commercial Drones
Commercial drone operations in Columbus require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Ohio law permits commercial drone use for agriculture, real estate, surveying, and other purposes. Commercial operators near John Glenn Columbus International Airport must obtain LAANC authorization. The city does not require an additional local drone permit for commercial operations.
Columbus Commercial Drone Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsFAA — 14 CFR Part 107 Small UAS Rule
Certificated Remote Pilots including Commercial Operators The Operations Over People rule became effective on April 21, 2021. Drone pilots operating under Part 107 may fly at night, over people and moving vehicles without a waiver as long as they meet the requirements defined in the rule. Airspace authorizations are still required for night operations in controlled airspace under 400 feet. If y...
Looking for Franklin County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Columbus city rules.
Drone Rules in Franklin County →