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Drone Rules in Lodi, CA (2026)

3 verified drone rules for Lodi, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Recreational Drones

Lodi has not adopted a city-wide ordinance regulating recreational drones — the activity is governed by federal law (FAA recreational rules under 49 U.S.C. §44809) and California state law. Recreational pilots must pass TRUST, register drones over 0.55 lb, fly under 400 ft, keep visual line-of-sight, and stay clear of Lodi Airport (1O3) and Lodi Airpark (L53).

Recreational Drones (FAA Part 107 / 49 U.S.C. §44809 — No Lodi-specific ordinance)

Some Restrictions

FAA Recreational Flyers Rules (49 USC 44809)

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-recognized Community-Based Organization (CBO). N...

Commercial Drones

Commercial drone operations in Lodi are governed by 14 CFR Part 107, not by city ordinance. Commercial pilots need a Remote Pilot Certificate, must register each aircraft, follow Part 107 operating limits, and obtain LAANC authorization before flying in controlled airspace. Lodi's airfields (1O3 and L53) sit in uncontrolled airspace, but pilots must coordinate with the non-towered airports when within 5 miles.

Commercial Drones (FAA Part 107 — No Lodi-specific ordinance)

Some Restrictions

Park Drone Restrictions

Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 12.12 governs conduct in Lodi's parks and recreational areas (including Lodi Lake Park, Hutchins Street Square grounds, and neighborhood parks). The chapter regulates general park use and prohibits activities that interfere with public safety; it does not contain an explicit blanket drone ban, but operating a drone over park crowds or events is restricted by federal Part 107 rules and the park-use permit requirement for organized activities.

Drones in Lodi Parks (Lodi Municipal Code Chapter 12.12 — Recreational Areas)

Some Restrictions

Looking for San Joaquin County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Lodi city rules.

Drone Rules in San Joaquin County