Drone Rules in Fort Collins, CO (2026)
2 verified drone rules for Fort Collins, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Fort Collins recreational drone use is governed by FAA rules and local ordinances. Drones under 55 lbs must be registered with the FAA. No flying near airports.
Fort Collins Recreational Drone Flying Rules
Some RestrictionsFAA — Recreational Flyers & Community-Based Organizations (49 U.S.C. § 44809)
Recreational Operations. If you want to fly a drone for purely recreational purposes, there is a limited statutory exception ("carve out") that provides a basic set of requirements; this is known as the The Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (USC 44809) . Recreational Flyers are required to complete The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of comp...
Commercial Drones
Fort Collins commercial drone operators must hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Additional local permits may be required for filming or surveying.
Fort Collins Commercial Drone Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsFAA — Certificated Remote Pilots Including Commercial Operators (14 CFR Part 107)
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 you have a small drone that is less than 55 pounds, you can...
Looking for Larimer County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Fort Collins city rules.
Drone Rules in Larimer County →