Drone Rules in Philadelphia, PA (2026)
4 verified drone rules for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Pennsylvania state law (18 Pa.C.S. §3505 and Act 78 of 2018) preempts local drone regulation. Philadelphia cannot enact its own drone ownership or operation ordinances. Recreational drone operators must follow FAA rules including registration for drones 0.55-55 lbs, not flying over crowds, and staying below 400 ft in uncontrolled airspace.
Philadelphia Recreational Drone Flying Rules
Some RestrictionsCommercial Drones
Commercial drone operations in Philadelphia are governed by FAA Part 107 and PA state law. Operators need a Remote Pilot Certificate. PA Act 78 of 2018 preempts local regulation. The Philadelphia Police Department has its own drone policy (Directive 4.24) for law enforcement use, but no local commercial drone licensing exists.
Philadelphia Commercial Drone Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsAirport Proximity Rules
Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 rules and Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability govern drone flights near Philadelphia International Airport. Pilots must obtain LAANC clearance before operating in Class B airspace covering most of South and Southwest Philadelphia neighborhoods.
Drone flights near PHL airport require LAANC authorization
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. There are two ways to use LAANC: Submit a near real-time authorization request for operations under 400 feet in controlled a...
Event Drone Restrictions
Federal Aviation Administration stadium Temporary Flight Restrictions ban drone operations within three nautical miles and three thousand feet AGL of the Stadium District during Eagles, Phillies, and Sixers games. Philadelphia adds park, special-event, and trespass enforcement at venue gates.
Drones banned over Lincoln Financial Field and Citizens Bank Park
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Philadelphia County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Philadelphia city rules.
Drone Rules in Philadelphia County →