Drone Rules in San Francisco, CA (2026)
3 verified drone rules for San Francisco, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
San Francisco bans drone takeoff and landing in all city parks under SF Park Code 3.10. Recreational pilots must register drones over 0.55 lbs with the FAA ($5/3 years), pass the TRUST test, fly below 400 feet AGL, and keep the aircraft in line of sight. Most of the city sits under SFO Class B airspace requiring LAANC authorization.
San Francisco Recreational Drone Rules
Heavy RestrictionsCommercial Drones
Commercial drone operations in San Francisco require FAA Part 107 certification and compliance with local filming permit requirements. SF Film Commission review is required for commercial drone filming in the city. Park Code Section 3.09 requires Rec & Park Department authorization for park operations.
San Francisco Commercial Drone Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsPark Drone Restrictions
San Francisco Recreation and Parks Commission prohibits drones in all city parks, recreation areas, and beaches under the SF Park Code and Commission Resolution. Golden Gate Park, Crissy Field (NPS), and Presidio are all closed to drone takeoff and landing. SFPD enforces the rule with citations starting at $192.