Drone Rules in Jacksonville, FL (2026)
3 verified drone rules for Jacksonville, Florida, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone use in Jacksonville is primarily regulated by federal law (FAA Part 107 and the Exception for Recreational Flyers). Florida Statute §330.41 preempts local governments from regulating drones except around critical infrastructure and in certain limited circumstances. Jacksonville cannot enact its own drone ordinances beyond state law. Drone operators must follow FAA airspace restrictions, particularly near NAS Jacksonville, NAS Mayport, Cecil Airport, and Jacksonville International Airport.
Jacksonville Recreational Drone Flying Rules
Some RestrictionsCommercial Drones
Commercial drone operation in Jacksonville requires an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Florida Statute §330.41 preempts most local regulation of drones, including commercial operations. Operators must comply with FAA airspace authorizations, particularly in the complex airspace around Jacksonville's multiple military (NAS Jacksonville, NAS Mayport) and civilian (JIA, Craig Municipal) airports. A Local Business Tax Receipt may be required for drone-based businesses operating in Duval County.
Jacksonville Commercial Drone Operations & Permits
Some RestrictionsAirport Proximity Rules
FAA airspace blankets Jacksonville International, Cecil, Craig, and Herlong airports plus NAS Jacksonville and NAS Mayport. Recreational and Part 107 pilots must obtain LAANC authorization before flying any drone within five miles of those facilities.
Drone Flights Near JAX and NAS Jacksonville Need LAANC
Heavy RestrictionsFAA Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC)
Drone pilots planning to fly under 400 feet in controlled airspace around airports must receive an airspace authorization from the FAA before they fly. LAANC is available to pilots operating under the Small UAS Rule Part 107 or under the exception for Recreational Flyers . You can get access through one of the FAA Approved LAANC UAS Service Suppliers . There are two ways to use LAANC : Submit a...
Looking for Duval County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Jacksonville city rules.
Drone Rules in Duval County →