Recreational Drones: Clovis vs Selma
How do recreational drones rules compare between Clovis, CA and Selma, CA?
Selma has fewer restrictions than Clovis.
Clovis, CA
Fresno County
Recreational drone pilots must pass TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test), register drones 250g+, stay under 400 ft, and follow FAA airspace rules. California Pen. Code §402 bars flying over emergency scenes. Clovis parks do not allow drone takeoff without permission.
View full Clovis rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma has no local drone ordinance. Recreational operators follow FAA Part 44809 rules requiring visual line of sight, a 400-foot altitude limit, and registration for drones over 0.55 pounds.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clovis | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| TRUST | Required | - |
| Registration | Drones 250g+ | Required over 0.55 lbs |
| Max Altitude | 400 ft AGL | 400 feet AGL |
| City Parks | No takeoff w/o permit | - |
| Emergency Scenes | Banned (Pen. §402) | - |
| Local Drone Law | - | None adopted |
| Federal Authority | - | FAA Part 44809 |
| Nearby Airport | - | Fresno Yosemite Intl (~15 mi) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clovis FAQ
Can I fly my drone in my backyard?
Yes, if under 400 ft, in Class G airspace (or with LAANC authorization), line-of-sight, not over people, and you've completed TRUST. Check B4UFLY for airspace near airports.
Can I launch a drone from a Clovis city park?
No, not without explicit permission from Clovis Parks & Recreation. City parks prohibit takeoff and landing of drones as a default rule.
Is it legal to fly a drone over a wildfire or accident scene in Clovis?
No. California Penal Code §402 prohibits interfering with first responders, including flying drones over wildfires, accidents, or active emergency scenes — violations are misdemeanors.
Selma FAQ
Can I fly a drone in Selma?
Yes, recreational drone flight is permitted under federal rules. You must stay below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and register your drone if it weighs over 0.55 pounds. Check LAANC for airspace authorization near Fresno airport.
Are drones allowed in Selma city parks?
Park activities that endanger public safety or disturb other users are prohibited under SMC Chapter 8 park regulations. Contact City Hall for specific guidance on drone use in parks.
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