Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Pinellas County, FL Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 3 weeks ago|Source: Pinellas County Code of Ordinances →

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Key Facts

Federal Rule: FAA Part 107
State Statute: Fla. Stat. 330.41
Privacy Statute: Fla. Stat. 934.50
Airspace Tool: LAANC authorization

City-specific rules exist: St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, Tarpon Springs, Seminole, Safety Harbor, Dunedin, and Pinellas Park have their own commercial drones rules that differ from Pinellas County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Commercial drone operations in Pinellas County require an FAA Part 107 remote pilot certificate, with Florida Statute 330.41 preempting most local in-air regulation.

Full Breakdown

Commercial drone pilots in Pinellas County must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, register the aircraft, and follow operational rules including 400-foot altitude limits, daylight or waivered operations, and Class B/C/D airspace authorization through LAANC near St. Pete-Clearwater International and Albert Whitted airports. Florida Statute 330.41 preempts local rules on flight, but Pinellas County retains authority over launch and recovery from county property and over nuisance, voyeurism, and reckless endangerment. Florida Statute 934.50 bars commercial use of imagery captured in violation of privacy.

Violations & Fines

FAA enforcement can suspend or revoke Part 107 certificates and impose civil penalties up to $32,666 per violation. State charges under Fla. Stat. 934.50 are criminal misdemeanors, and county trespass or nuisance citations apply for public-property launches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need county permission for a real estate flyover?

If launch and landing occur on the listed property with owner consent, county permission is usually unnecessary. Launching from a county park or right-of-way requires a permit, and FAA Part 107 plus airspace authorization still apply.

Can the county add commercial drone fees?

Florida Statute 330.41 prevents Pinellas from charging operating fees for in-air commercial drone use. The county can charge for permits to launch from county-owned property like parks or piers.

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Pinellas County, FL Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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