Drone Rules in Los Angeles County, CA (2026)

5 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 19 cities in Los Angeles County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Recreational Drones

No LA County-specific drone ordinance for unincorporated areas. FAA Part 107 and recreational rules apply. The large geographic area includes proximity to multiple airports (LAX, Van Nuys, Whiteman). LAANC system required for airspace authorization in much of the county.

Los Angeles County Recreational Drone Flying Rules

Some Restrictions

FAA — Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (49 U.S.C. § 44809)

The Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (USC 44809) is the law that describes how, when, and where you can fly drones for recreational purposes. Following these rules helps keep people, your drone and our airspace safe: Fly only for recreational purposes (personal enjoyment). Follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized Community-Based Organization (CBO). ......

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Commercial Drones

Commercial drone operations in unincorporated LA County follow FAA Part 107 requirements. Operators need a Remote Pilot Certificate. County business license may be required. No local ordinance adds restrictions beyond federal rules.

Los Angeles County Commercial Drone Permit Rules

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Park Drone Restrictions

Title 17.04.510 of the LA County Code prohibits launching, landing, or operating unmanned aircraft systems in County-operated parks, beaches, and recreation areas without an advance permit from the Department of Parks and Recreation. The rule covers over 180 facilities.

Drones Banned In Most LA County Parks Without Permit

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Airport Proximity Rules

Federal Aviation Administration rules under 14 CFR Part 107 and LAANC preempt local drone-proximity rules. Pilots must obtain controlled-airspace authorization within five miles of LAX, Burbank, Long Beach, Van Nuys, Hawthorne, Whiteman, Compton, El Monte, and Santa Monica airports.

Drones Near Airports Require FAA Authorization Throughout LA County

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Event Drone Restrictions

The Federal Aviation Administration issues Temporary Flight Restrictions over major LA County events including Rose Parade, Super Bowl, Oscars, large stadium games, and active wildfires. TFRs block all drones inside the cylinder and ground LA County operations under Title 17.04.510.