Drone Rules in Gaithersburg, MD (2026)
2 verified drone rules for Gaithersburg, Maryland, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone flying in Gaithersburg is heavily restricted due to the Washington DC Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) and the Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ). All drone flights within 30 nautical miles of Reagan National Airport require FAA authorization through LAANC or DroneZone. Gaithersburg falls within the SFRA, meaning recreational drone operators must comply with strict federal airspace rules in addition to any local park restrictions.
Gaithersburg Recreational Drone Flying Rules
Heavy RestrictionsCommercial Drones
Commercial drone operations in Gaithersburg require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and prior airspace authorization due to the Washington DC SFRA. Operators must obtain LAANC or DroneZone authorization before every flight. Additional TSA vetting may be required for flights near the Flight Restricted Zone boundary. Commercial operators must carry liability insurance and comply with all FAA operational requirements.
Gaithersburg Commercial Drone Operation Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsFAA – 14 CFR Part 107 Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems; § 107.205 waivers; Part 48 Registration
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 ...
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County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Gaithersburg city rules.
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