Drone Rules in Pittsburgh, PA (2026)
2 verified drone rules for Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone use in Pittsburgh is governed by FAA regulations. Pilots must register drones with the FAA, fly below 400 feet, and maintain visual line of sight. Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport create controlled airspace zones requiring LAANC authorization for drone flights in certain areas.
Pittsburgh Recreational Drone Flying Rules
Some RestrictionsFAA — Recreational Flyers & Community-Based Organizations: Rules for Recreational Flyers (Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft, 49 U.S.C. § 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 Pittsburgh require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Operators must comply with Part 107 rules. LAANC authorization is typically needed due to proximity to Pittsburgh International Airport. Pittsburgh has a growing drone industry with research and development at Carnegie Mellon University and local startups.
Pittsburgh Commercial Drone Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsFAA — Certificated Remote Pilots including Commercial Operators: 14 CFR Part 107 Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems
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 you have a small drone that is less than 55 pounds, you can...
Looking for Allegheny County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Pittsburgh city rules.
Drone Rules in Allegheny County →