Drone Rules in San Diego County, CA (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 7 cities in San Diego County, California.

Verified from official government sources

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

Recreational Drones

Recreational drone use in unincorporated San Diego County is governed by FAA regulations. Drones must be registered, flown below 400 feet, within visual line of sight, and away from airports. County parks require permits and insurance for drone operations on County property.

San Diego County Recreational Drone Rules

Some Restrictions

Federal Aviation Administration — Recreational Flyers & Modeler Community-Based Organizations (49 U.S.C. § 44809)

Recreational Operations. If you want to fly a drone for purely recreational purposes, there is a limited statutory exception ("carve out") that provides a basic set of requirements; this is known as the The Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft (USC 44809) . Recreational Flyers are required to complete The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of comp...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Commercial Drones

Commercial drone operators in unincorporated San Diego County must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. County property requires permits. Operators must carry insurance and indemnify the County. LAANC authorization required near airports.

San Diego County Commercial Drone Regulations

Some Restrictions

Federal Aviation Administration — Commercial Drone Operations under 14 CFR Part 107 (Small UAS Rule)

what is and is not allowed under Part 107 rules. 14 CFR Part 107 Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems If you are not sure if Part 107 rules work for you and your intended operation check our user identification tool . Some operations will require a waiver. Here are the regulations specified in §107.205 that are subject to waiver: Operation from a moving vehicle or aircraft - §107.25 Operation at Nig...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗