Recreational Drones: Surprise vs Tempe
How do recreational drones rules compare between Surprise, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Tempe.
Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Recreational drone use in Maricopa County is governed primarily by FAA regulations, not county ordinances. FAA requires recreational drone pilots to pass the TRUST (Recreational UAS Safety Test). Drones must be flown below 400 feet AGL, within visual line of sight, and not over people. Arizona state law (ARS 13-3729) prohibits using drones to conduct surveillance of private property. No specific county drone ordinance exists for unincorporated areas.
View full Surprise rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Recreational drone pilots in Tempe must follow FAA rules including The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Arizona law (ARS 13-3729) preempts local drone regulation. Tempe's proximity to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport means most of the city is in controlled airspace. Recreational pilots must use the LAANC system or notify airport control towers before flying. Drones must stay below 400 feet and within visual line of sight.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Surprise | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | FAA preempts local drone regulation | - |
| Altitude | Below 400 feet AGL | - |
| TRUST Test | Required for recreational pilots | Required, must carry proof of passing |
| Privacy | ARS 13-3729 prohibits drone surveillance | - |
| County Ordinance | No specific drone rules | - |
| Federal Rules | - | FAA Section 44809 for recreational flyers |
| Airspace | - | Near PHX, LAANC authorization needed |
| Max Altitude | - | 400 ft AGL |
| Registration | - | Required for drones over 0.55 lbs |
| State Preemption | - | ARS 13-3729 prevents local bans |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Surprise FAQ
Do I need a permit from Maricopa County to fly a recreational drone?
No county permit is required. Maricopa County has no county-specific drone ordinance. Recreational drone use is governed by FAA regulations: pass the TRUST exam, fly below 400 feet AGL, maintain visual line of sight, and check airspace restrictions using the FAA B4UFLY app.
Can I fly a drone near Sky Harbor or other airports in Maricopa County?
You cannot fly in controlled airspace near Sky Harbor, Deer Valley, Falcon Field, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway, or Buckeye airports without LAANC authorization. Always check airspace restrictions using the FAA B4UFLY app before flying anywhere in Maricopa County.
Is it legal to fly a drone over someone's property in Maricopa County?
Arizona law ARS 13-3729 makes it a Class 3 misdemeanor to use a drone to intentionally photograph or surveil a person on private property without consent. Simply flying over property is not illegal, but surveillance or photography of people is restricted.
Tempe FAQ
Can I fly a drone in Tempe for fun?
Yes, but you must pass the TRUST test, get LAANC authorization (most of Tempe is controlled airspace near PHX), stay below 400 feet, and maintain visual line of sight.
Do I need to register my drone?
Drones weighing over 0.55 pounds (250 grams) must be registered with the FAA. Display the registration number on the drone.
Can I fly my drone at a Tempe park?
Federal airspace rules apply, and LAANC authorization is likely needed. Park management may have rules about launching from city property.
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