Drone Rules in Riverside, CA (2026)
3 verified drone rules for Riverside, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Riverside has no city-wide recreational drone ordinance — recreational pilots follow FAA 49 USC 44809 and California state law. The Riverside Municipal Code does, however, ban model airplane and model rocket flying inside any city park unless in a designated area.
Recreational drones in Riverside follow FAA rules; city parks restrict model aircraft
Some RestrictionsFAA Recreational Flyers; Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (49 USC 44809)
What are the Rules for Recreational Flyers? 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-reco...
Commercial Drones
Riverside does not require a separate municipal commercial drone permit. Commercial operators must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and follow 14 CFR Part 107. Operators using public property such as parks for commercial filming need a Facility Reservation permit under RMC § 9.08.120.
Commercial drone operators in Riverside need an FAA Part 107 certificate; no separate city license
Some RestrictionsFAA Part 107 Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (14 CFR Part 107)
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...
Park Drone Restrictions
Riverside Municipal Code § 9.08.090 prohibits model airplane flying, model rockets, and 'any game of a hazardous nature' inside any City park except where specifically authorized. Drones launched from or landed in city parks without a Facility Reservation permit are subject to enforcement.
Drones in Riverside city parks: takeoff and landing prohibited outside designated areas
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Riverside County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Riverside city rules.
Drone Rules in Riverside County →