Commercial drone flight in Missouri is governed primarily by FAA Part 107, which preempts local airspace rules. Missouri adds surveillance and weaponization restrictions, while cities may only regulate ground-level operations on public property.
Commercial drone pilots in Missouri must hold an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 107 and follow federal rules on altitude, daylight operations, and visual line of sight. The FAA's exclusive authority over navigable airspace preempts municipal airspace regulation. Missouri RSMo 305.637 still applies to commercial users, prohibiting warrantless surveillance, while RSMo 305.638 forbids using a weaponized drone, a serious felony. Operators delivering goods, conducting inspections, or filming for hire must comply with both federal certification and state privacy rules. Cities retain authority over takeoff and landing zones on city property, parks, and special events, plus enforcement of trespass and nuisance laws.
Federal civil penalties can exceed $30,000 per violation. Weaponizing a drone is a class B felony in Missouri, punishable by 5 to 15 years in prison. Surveillance violations support civil damages.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
See how Gladstone's commercial drones rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.