Miami, FL Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)
Key Facts
- Weight limit
- 5 lbs unless AMA member
- Restricted zones
- Half-mile of major stadiums, events
- Application lead time
- At least 14 days ahead
- Violation consequence
- UAS impoundment plus fine
- Governing law
- Miami Code § 37-12
Summary
Miami caps unregistered drones at five pounds and bars UAS entirely within a half-mile of major stadiums and large public events unless the operator files the city's application.
a.UAS may not be larger than five pounds including any attachments, and may not be equipped with detachable cargo, releasable payload, or any device equipped to carry a weapon. Any modifications to a UAS must be pursuant to FAA approval and registered via the city's application process.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 23 | Ordinance 11000 (Previous Zoning Code): Supplement 22 | Miami 21 (Zoning Code): ?).
Full Breakdown
City of Miami Code § 37-12 governs unmanned aircraft systems citywide. Any UAS is prohibited within a half-mile of Bayfront Park, Marlins Park, Miami Marine Stadium, or the Calle Ocho Festival while a large venue special event is underway, and over public parks and facilities during those events. Elsewhere in the city a drone may not exceed five pounds, carry detachable cargo or a weapon, or be modified without FAA approval and city registration; UAS over five pounds must be flown by a registered Academy of Model Aeronautics member. Operators, including commercial photography, inspection, or event-coverage businesses, working in or near covered areas must file the city's application at least 14 days ahead and pay a fee the city manager sets annually.
Violations & Fines
An unregistered, oversized, or improperly equipped UAS caught in a restricted zone is impounded until court or code enforcement proceedings end, on top of the general penalty under § 1-13; the city may also sue civilly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly a commercial drone in Miami?
Do I need city approval to fly a drone during a festival at a Miami park?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Miami
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Miami to another location·View the Florida drone rules overview
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