Recreational Drones: Fontana vs San Bernardino
How do recreational drones rules compare between Fontana, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
San Bernardino has fewer restrictions than Fontana.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Recreational drone pilots in Fontana must follow FAA Part 107 hobby rules, pass TRUST, and avoid Ontario Airport airspace. City parks prohibit drone launches without a permit.
View full Fontana rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
Recreational drone pilots in San Bernardino must follow 49 USC 44809, stay below 400 feet, keep visual line of sight, and register drones over 0.55 pounds. City parks bar takeoff and landing without a permit.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Federal test required | TRUST | - |
| Max altitude | 400 feet AGL | 400 feet above ground level |
| Airspace | ONT controlled | - |
| Parks | No launches without permit | - |
| Registration | - | Required for drones over 0.55 pounds |
| Airport rule | - | LAANC authorization needed near SB International |
| City parks | - | Takeoff and landing prohibited without permit |
| Privacy | - | No recording of people in private activity (Civil Code 1708.8) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Can I fly my drone in a Fontana park?
Not without a permit from Community Services. Most parks and recreation facilities prohibit drone launches and landings.
Do I need airspace authorization?
Yes in most of Fontana because Ontario Airport's Class C airspace covers the area. Use the LAANC system in the B4UFLY or DroneZone app.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can I fly my drone at a San Bernardino city park?
Taking off and landing in a city park requires a special use permit from Parks and Recreation. You may fly over the park from a legal launch location if FAA rules and privacy laws are respected.
Do I need to register my recreational drone?
Yes, if it weighs more than 0.55 pounds. Register on the FAA DroneZone website, pay the 5 dollar fee, and mark the registration number on the drone.
Can I fly near San Bernardino International Airport?
Only with LAANC authorization through an approved app like Aloft or Kittyhawk. The airport lies within controlled Class D airspace with altitude grids, and unauthorized flights can draw FAA enforcement and federal penalties.
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