Lincoln, NE Drone Rules: Park Drone Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Flying allowed only in
- Director-designated recreational flying fields
- Minimum age unsupervised
- 14 years old
- Hours permitted
- Daylight only
- Max penalty
- $500 fine / 6 months jail
Summary
Lincoln confines drones and model aircraft in city parks to Parks and Recreation-designated flying fields, requires daylight-only, line-of-sight operation, and bars unsupervised flying by anyone under 14.
Park Flyer Model Aircraft shall only be operated in areas designated as recreational flying fields by the Director of the Parks and Recreation Department. Recreational flying fields shall be posted with signage designating their use along with any regulations regarding use of the field that may be promulgated by the Director, approved by the Mayor, and filed with the office of the City Clerk. Park Flyer Model Aircraft shall be remotely operated by a radio controller or a control line, shall remain within sight of the operator at all times, and shall be safely flown by the operator. Operators under the age of 14 shall be under the direct supervision of a responsible adult. Park Flyer Aircraft shall only be operated during daylight hours. Such aircraft must be operated within the boundaries of the designated flying field and at a safe distance from vulnerable property and spectators other than an adult supervisor, if required. The operator is responsible for damage or injury resulting from operation of a Park Flyer Model Aircraft. Use of such aircraft to harass wildlife or park patrons is prohibited. (Ord. 20715 §2; October 29, 2018).
12.08.300 Permit for Special Use of Park or Park Facility.
Full Breakdown
Under Lincoln Municipal Code § 12.08.295, Park Flyer Model Aircraft (which covers recreational drones) may only be flown in areas the Parks and Recreation Director designates and signs as recreational flying fields. Flights must stay within the operator's sight, launch only from a radio controller or control line, and occur during daylight hours within the field boundaries. Operators under 14 need a responsible adult directly supervising them, and using the aircraft to harass wildlife or park patrons is barred outright.
Violations & Fines
Flying outside a designated field, after dark, or without required adult supervision is a misdemeanor under § 12.08.340: up to $500 and 6 months in jail, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly a drone anywhere in a Lincoln park?
Is there an age limit for flying in Lincoln parks?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lincoln
Compare Lincoln to another location·View the Nebraska drone rules overview
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