Commercial drone operations in Indiana are governed by FAA Part 107 with state-law overlays under IC 35-33-5-9, IC 35-46-8.5, and IC 35-45-4-5. Local governments cannot regulate flight, only ground-based logistics.
Commercial operators must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, register aircraft, broadcast Remote ID, and follow operational limits (400 ft AGL, daylight or anti-collision-lit, visual line of sight unless waived). Indiana does not require an additional state commercial drone license. State law adds restrictions: warrants needed for police use (IC 35-33-5-9), criminal liability for surveillance over private property (IC 35-46-8.5-2 remote aerial harassment of hunters; IC 35-45-4-5 voyeurism), and trespass risk under IC 35-43-2-2 if drone causes damage. Critical infrastructure flights face additional federal restrictions. Cities cannot impose flight permits but may restrict takeoff/landing zones.
FAA penalties reach $27,500 per violation. State criminal counts (voyeurism, harassment, trespass) are Class A or B misdemeanors carrying up to 1 year jail and $5,000 fines, plus civil liability for damages.
See how Hamilton County's commercial drones rules stack up against other locations.
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