Drone Rules in Richmond, VA (2026)
2 verified drone rules for Richmond, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone operation in Richmond governed by FAA Part 107 and VA Code 15.2-926.3 which preempts most local drone regulation. TRUST certification and drone registration required for craft over 0.55 lbs. Local Richmond parks prohibit takeoff and landing.
Drones: Recreational Drones
Some RestrictionsVa. Code § 15.2-926.3
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 property owned by the political subdivision. Such ordi...
Commercial Drones
Operating a drone for commercial filming on Richmond public grounds requires an FAA-licensed operator and a $125.00 permit under Richmond City Code § 8-279(c)(10). The fee is part of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities' grounds-use schedule and sits alongside a separate daily staff-cost charge for on-site film productions.
Richmond's Commercial Drone Filming Permit Fee
Some RestrictionsRichmond City Code § 8-279(c)(10)
(a)Each person shall, for the privilege of renting the public grounds and indoor facilities of park houses, recreation centers, and Reedy Creek Nature Center, be charged a user's fee as set forth in this subsection... (c)Additional fees shall be imposed as follows: Grounds fees ... (10)Drone filming permit fee (Federal Aviation Administration license required) $125.00