Drone Rules in Riverside, CA (2026)
2 verified drone rules for Riverside, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone use in Riverside must comply with FAA regulations and California drone laws. Drones must be registered with the FAA if weighing 0.55 to 55 pounds. Pilots must pass the TRUST exam and fly below 400 feet. California Civil Code §1708.8 prohibits using drones to invade privacy. Operations near Riverside Municipal Airport and March Air Reserve Base require LAANC authorization. City parks may restrict drone use.
Riverside Recreational Drone Flying Rules
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
Commercial drone operations in Riverside require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Operators must comply with Part 107 rules. LAANC authorization is required near Riverside Municipal Airport and March Air Reserve Base. California privacy laws apply to commercial operations. A city business license may be required for ongoing commercial drone services in Riverside.
Riverside Commercial Drone Permit Rules
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...
Looking for Riverside County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Riverside city rules.
Drone Rules in Riverside County →