Drone Rules in Tucson, AZ (2026)
2 verified drone rules for Tucson, Arizona, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Recreational Drones
Recreational drone use in Tucson is primarily governed by FAA regulations. The city has a no-drone zone over Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and its surrounding airspace. Tucson city parks generally allow recreational drone use but operators must follow FAA rules including registration for drones over 0.55 lbs, visual line-of-sight operation, and altitude limits of 400 feet AGL.
Tucson Recreational Drone Flying Rules
Some Restrictions49 U.S.C. § 44809 — Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft
Recreational Flyers & Community-Based Organizations. [...] To fly for fun, you need to: Sign up — Register your drone; Make it legal — Take the FREE TRUST test; Always follow the rules — Know the law; Respect the airspace — Other aircraft fly low too; Team up — Learn from a drone community-based organization (CBO). [...] S — Sign up (Register): You must register if your drone weighs 250 grams (...
Commercial Drones
Commercial drone operations in Tucson require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Operators must comply with all FAA regulations including airspace restrictions around Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and Tucson International Airport. Arizona state law preempts most local commercial drone regulations, but operators may need city permits for filming on city property.
Tucson Commercial Drone Operations & Permits
Some Restrictions14 CFR Part 107 — Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Certificated Remote Pilots)
Certificated Remote Pilots including Commercial Operators. 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 ...
Looking for Pima County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Tucson city rules.
Drone Rules in Pima County →