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🚁 Drone Rules/Airport Proximity Rules

Airport Proximity Rules: Gilbert vs Tempe

How do airport proximity rules rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Tempe, AZ?

Gilbert and Tempe have similar restriction levels.

Gilbert, AZ

Maricopa County

Heavy Restrictions

Drone flights near Phoenix Sky Harbor and Mesa Gateway airports require FAA Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) approval. Maricopa County defers to federal airspace rules under 14 CFR Part 107 with no separate county permit.

View full Gilbert rules β†’

Tempe, AZ

Maricopa County

Heavy Restrictions

Drone flights near Phoenix Sky Harbor and Mesa Gateway airports require FAA Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) approval. Maricopa County defers to federal airspace rules under 14 CFR Part 107 with no separate county permit.

View full Tempe rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactGilbertTempe
Authorization toolFAA LAANCFAA LAANC
Altitude ceiling400 feet AGL400 feet AGL
Major airportsPHX and IWAPHX and IWA
RegulatorFAA Part 107FAA Part 107

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Gilbert FAQ

Can I fly my drone over downtown Phoenix?

Only with LAANC authorization. Most of central Phoenix sits inside Sky Harbor's Class B airspace with zero-altitude grids requiring case-by-case FAA approval before any flight.

Does Maricopa County issue drone permits?

No. The county follows federal FAA rules. Pilots register drones with the FAA, get LAANC for controlled airspace, and follow Part 107 commercial requirements when applicable.

Tempe FAQ

Can I fly my drone over downtown Phoenix?

Only with LAANC authorization. Most of central Phoenix sits inside Sky Harbor's Class B airspace with zero-altitude grids requiring case-by-case FAA approval before any flight.

Does Maricopa County issue drone permits?

No. The county follows federal FAA rules. Pilots register drones with the FAA, get LAANC for controlled airspace, and follow Part 107 commercial requirements when applicable.

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