Drone Rules in Norfolk, VA (2026)
2 verified drone rules for Norfolk, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone operation in Norfolk is heavily constrained by federal airspace restrictions surrounding Naval Station Norfolk, Chambers Field, and Norfolk International Airport. Most of the city lies in restricted or controlled airspace requiring FAA authorization.
Drones: Recreational Drones
Heavy RestrictionsVa. Code § 15.2-926.3 (Local Regulation of Certain Aircraft)
§ 15.2-926.3 . Local regulation of certain aircraft. A. No political subdivision may regulate the use of a privately owned, unmanned aircraft system as defined in § 19.2-60.1 within its boundaries. B. Notwithstanding the prohibition of subsection A, a political subdivision may, by ordinance or regulation, regulate the take-off and landing of an unmanned aircraft, as defined in § 19.2-60.1 , on ...
Commercial Drones
Commercial drone operators in Norfolk must hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and secure LAANC authorization for nearly every flight due to Class C airspace from KORF plus Navy restricted areas. Operations near NS Norfolk require prior DoD coordination.
Drones: Commercial Drones
Heavy Restrictions14 CFR Part 107
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 Norfolk City county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Norfolk city rules.
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