Augusta-Richmond County, GA Drone Rules: Event Drone Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- Events/assemblies of 100+ people
- Authorization needed
- Prior written OK from Sheriff
- Penalty
- Up to 60 days jail, $1,000 fine
- Geographic scope
- Excludes Hephzibah and Blythe
- Enforcement tool
- Drone may be impounded
Summary
Augusta-Richmond County bans launching or operating drones over highly populated areas, events or assemblies of 100 or more people, without prior written authorization from the Richmond County Sheriff, under a countywide ordinance excluding Hephzibah and Blythe.
Except for Commercial UAS Flights, Law Enforcement UAS Flights, and other flights expressly approved by FAA, no person shall launch or operate any Unmanned Aircraft System, including Model Aircraft, in a highly populated area within the limits of Richmond County, Georgia (excluding the cities of Hephzibah and Blythe), without prior written authorization from the Richmond County Sheriff.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Recodification).
Full Breakdown
Augusta-Richmond County Code Section 1-3-44(e) prohibits launching or operating any unmanned aircraft system or model aircraft in a 'highly populated area', defined as any sporting, recreation, or entertainment event with seating for 100 or more, any open-air assembly of 100 or more, or any area the Augusta Commission specifically designates, without prior written authorization from the Richmond County Sheriff. The restriction covers all of Richmond County except Hephzibah and Blythe, and exempts approved commercial UAS flights, law enforcement flights, the model aircraft field at Mike Padgett Highway and Horseshoe Road, other Commission-approved model aircraft fields, and Daniel Field during Skyfest or the Boshears Memorial Fly-in.
Violations & Fines
Flying a drone over a qualifying event without Sheriff authorization is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, and impoundment of the aircraft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly a drone over a football game in Augusta?
Does this drone rule apply in Hephzibah or Blythe?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Augusta-Richmond County
Compare Augusta-Richmond County to another location·View the Georgia drone rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.