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Tulsa, OK Drone Rules: Event Drone Restrictions (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Trigger
drone use = 'film production'
Permit issuer
Special Events Coordinator
Apply by
10 days before filming
Fee
$150 private / $450 public property
Max penalty
$1,200 fine, 6 months jail

Summary

Flying a drone during outdoor film production at a special event in Tulsa requires a film permit from the Special Events Coordinator, with a letter of support from the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture.

Film production shall mean any outdoor film-making proposed to block pedestrian or vehicular traffic, incorporate Intermittent Traffic Control (ITC), use of a Drone, or to take place on public or private property... It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the conduct of a film production on public and/or private property without first obtaining a permit from the special events coordinator and paying the fee established in Title 49, Chapter 10 currently in effect or hereafter adopted.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Tulsa's special events code treats outdoor film production using a drone as a regulated activity. Title 37 Section 1401.F defines 'film production' to include use of a Drone, and Section 1402.B makes it unlawful to conduct film production on public or private property without first obtaining a permit from the Special Events Coordinator, accompanied by a letter of support from the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture. Applications are due at least 10 days before filming, and film permit fees run $150 for private property or $450 for public rights-of-way.

Violations & Fines

Filming with a drone without a permit is unlawful under Section 1402.B; Section 1414 sets a fine up to $1,200 and up to six months in jail, with each day a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly a drone at a public event in Tulsa without a permit?
Not for filming. Tulsa's code counts drone use as "film production," which requires a permit from the Special Events Coordinator before the event, per Title 37 Sections 1401.F and 1402.B.
What does a Tulsa drone film permit cost?
$150 to film on private property or $450 for public rights-of-way, plus a $100 late fee if filed less than 10 days before the shoot, per Title 49 Section 1005.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Tulsa

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSignificant RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome Restrictions

All Tulsa rules

Compare Tulsa to another location·View the Oklahoma drone rules overview

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