Lower Paxton, PA Drone Rules: Park Drone Restrictions (2026)

Section 132-4(D) of the Lower Paxton Township Code says facilities and areas in Township recreation, park or conservancy sites are to be used only for the purposes designated or implicit in their character. It then names special activities, including flying model airplanes and drones, games, picnics, and the operation of motor scooters, motorcycles, minibikes, go-carts, snowmobiles and similar vehicles. All of them are permitted only at locations or trails specifically designated for such use and at times established. A drone pilot in Lower Paxton Township therefore needs a designated spot and an established time; an ordinary lawn, ball field or pavilion area does not qualify by default.

The code does not list the designated locations, and the definitions section of the chapter, § 132-2, defines only business activity, gambling, nonprofit organization and vendor. Section 132-4(D) itself sets no altitude limit, weight limit or registration step for drones. Other sections of Chapter 132 still reach a drone flight. Parks are open from official sunrise to official sunset, with lighted courts and fields open until 10:00 p.m., and any section of a park can be declared closed at any time. Section 132-4(C)(4) requires additional equipment brought onto park property in conjunction with a reservation to be pre-approved in writing by the Parks and Recreation Department and noted on the permit. Section 132-7(H) separately makes it unlawful to land a private or commercial airplane or helicopter on recreation, park and conservation lands, and § 132-7(K) bars conduct that endangers the safety of any person or violates any rule for the use of the park made or approved by the Department of Parks and Recreation.

The Township Manager and agents he designates, primarily the Manager of Parks and Recreation, administer the chapter.