Stockton, CA Drone Rules: Park Drone Restrictions (2026)

Stockton Municipal Code Chapter 12.56 governs use of all public parks. Under §12.56.020 it is unlawful for any person to enter, remain, or loiter within the limits of any park owned by the City between one hour after sundown and one hour before sunrise the next day. The time provisions do not apply to those places in each park designated as lighted recreation areas (such as tennis courts and ball fields), but in no event shall a person remain in any lighted recreation area after 10:00 p.m. nor enter such park before 6:00 a.m. unless permission is received from the Department of Parks and Recreation. The chapter (and §12.56.040 'Unlawful acts in public parks') prohibits a range of activities that may, in practice, cover reckless or intrusive drone use — including disturbing other park users, damaging property, and operating motorized equipment without permission. Because California has not preempted local regulation of takeoff and landing on city-owned property, the City retains the right to restrict drone launch/recovery on park land even though it cannot regulate the navigable airspace itself (FAA Part 107 controls altitude and flight). Posted signs at high-traffic parks (such as Weber Point Events Center, Victory Park, Oak Park, and Louis Park) take precedence: any park posted 'No Drones' or 'No UAS' is enforceable as a §12.56 violation. FAA recreational guidance also prohibits overflight of crowds and gatherings (a common occurrence at Stockton festivals and park events). The chapter does not apply to the entry of peace officers or other duly authorized public employees in the course of duty.