Phoenix, AZ Drone Rules: Park Drone Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Takeoff/landing
- Only at designated sites
- Site size minimum
- 400 ft on all sides
- Minors
- Under 17 need adult present
- Max civil sanction
- $500 per day
Summary
Phoenix bars drone takeoffs and landings in city parks except at Director-designated operation sites at least 400 feet on all sides.
No person shall operate a remotely controlled aircraft to take off or land in a park or preserve owned or operated by the City of Phoenix except in parks designated by the Director or designee in operation sites that meet the requirements of subsection E of this section.
D. Safety Code. The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) Safety Code applies to parks designated for the operation of remotely controlled aircraft. A person operating remotely controlled aircraft must follow AMA guidelines. Safe operating distances among remotely controlled aircraft must conform to the AMA Safety Code.
E. Operation sites. Operation sites shall at all times remain unobstructed and a safe distance away from other park users. Dimensions of operation sites shall be no less than 400 feet on all sides. For purposes of this section, unobstructed means an open park area that is level and free of trees, structures, or fences ten feet or higher, and that is fully accessible for the retrieval of launched aircraft.
F. Operation by minors. Children younger than 17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult when operating remotely controlled aircraft in City parks.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance G-7524, passed June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Phoenix City Code § 24-49 prohibits operating a remotely controlled aircraft, UAV, or UAS to take off or land in any city park or preserve unless the Director has designated that park for the activity. Designated operation sites must stay unobstructed and be at least 400 feet on every side, and pilots must follow the Academy of Model Aeronautics Safety Code. Kids under 17 need an adult with them. News crews, law enforcement, and city contractors doing park maintenance are exempt.
Violations & Fines
Civil sanction up to $500 per day; each day of violation counts as a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly a drone in any Phoenix park?
What happens if I fly from an undesignated park area?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
Compare Phoenix to another location·View the Arizona drone rules overview
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Park Drone Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle park drone restrictions.