St. Louis County, MO Drone Rules: Park Drone Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Allowed park
- Buder Park
- All others
- Drone-banned
- Code
- Chapter 712
Summary
St. Louis County Parks prohibit drone operation in all parks except Buder Park and a portion of Antire Valley, where designated model-aviation areas operated by the Lafayette Esquadrille and the Greater St. Louis Modeling Association are allowed.
Drone use is only permitted at Buder Park and a portion of Antire Valley in St. Louis County. Drones are prohibited in all other St. Louis County parks and facilities.
Full Breakdown
Park rules under Chapter 712 (Parks and Recreation) prohibit launching, landing, or operating UAVs in any County park except at designated model-aircraft fields. Buder Park (Valley Park) has two intersecting runways for model aircraft and a designated drone-racing area west of the runway. FAA Part 107 and recreational rules still apply over private property; Missouri has no statewide drone preemption preventing local park restrictions.
Violations & Fines
Park citation up to $1,000; equipment seizure; FAA reportable incidents add federal exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly my drone in Forest Park?
Can I fly over my own backyard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in St. Louis County
Compare St. Louis County to another location·View the Missouri drone rules overview
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