Miami, FL Drone Rules: Park Drone Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Prohibited zone
- Public parks/facilities during special events
- No-fly radius
- Half-mile around named venues
- Weight limit
- 5 lbs max outside prohibited areas
- Application lead time
- At least 14 days before use
- Penalty
- Impoundment plus Code § 1-13 fine
Summary
Miami bans launching or flying drones over public parks and facilities during large venue special events, plus a half-mile no-fly zone around Bayfront Park, Marlins Ballpark, Miami Marine Stadium and the Calle Ocho Festival while events are underway.
(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
Under City Code § 37-12, the City of Miami prohibits deploying, launching or flying an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) over any sporting event or large venue special event, including public parks and public facilities, while the event is underway, and within a half-mile radius of Bayfront Park, Marlins Ballpark, Miami Marine Stadium or the Calle Ocho Festival during those events. Outside prohibited areas, UAS may not exceed five pounds or carry detachable cargo, a releasable payload or a weapon without FAA approval and city registration; heavier UAS require Academy of Model Aeronautics membership. Operators seeking to fly at a covered event must apply at least 14 days in advance.
Violations & Fines
Violators face prosecution under Code § 1-13's general penalty provision or civil code enforcement action, and the city impounds any UAS operated in violation until court or code enforcement proceedings conclude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly a drone in a Miami park during a festival?
What if my drone weighs under 5 pounds and there's no event?
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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Park Drone Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Miami-Dade County handle park drone restrictions.