Miami, FL Drone Rules: Event Drone Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- No-fly zone
- Half-mile around stadiums during events
- Weight limit
- 5 lbs without AMA registration
- Application lead time
- At least 14 days ahead
- Penalty
- Sec. 1-13 fine plus UAS impoundment
Summary
Miami bans drone flights within a half-mile of Bayfront Park, Marlins Ballpark, Miami Marine Stadium, and the Calle Ocho Festival during large venue special events, plus over any public park or facility hosting one.
(c)Prohibitions.(1)Unless otherwise exempt under this section, UAS are prohibited from being deployed, launched or flown in any airspace within or over any sporting and/or large venue special event, including but not limited to, over and within a half-mile radius of Bayfront Park, Marlins Ballpark, Miami Marine Stadium, or the Calle Ocho Festival when it is in use during a large venue special event, and over public parks and public facilities during large venue special events.
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 Code § 37-12 bars unmanned aircraft systems from flying in the airspace over or within a half-mile of Bayfront Park, Marlins Ballpark, Miami Marine Stadium, or the Calle Ocho Festival whenever a large venue special event is underway, and over any public park or facility during one. Elsewhere in the city, drones over five pounds need AMA registration and drones with detachable cargo or weapons are banned outright. Operators who want to fly at a covered event must apply to the city at least 14 days ahead, submitting ID, a UAS photo and serial number. Violators face the section 1-13 penalty and the drone itself can be impounded pending a hearing.
Violations & Fines
Violating the drone-restriction section is a code violation under section 1-13, and the city can also impound the UAS until a code enforcement or court hearing concludes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly a drone at a Miami festival?
What happens if my drone violates the rule?
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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