Thornton, CO Drone Rules: Park Drone Restrictions (2026)

Section 46-42(a) lists activities prohibited in any park, parkway, open space, trail, recreational facility, or on any city-owned body of water unless expressly permitted by public posting. Item (11) specifically prohibits launching or landing unmanned aircraft systems, defined by cross-reference to § 38-358(b)(2), unless the location is otherwise posted to allow it. The list separately bans remote-controlled airplanes and other similar remote-controlled aerial devices under item (10), again unless posted. The prohibited-activities list also covers potentially dangerous flying objects more broadly: § 46-36 separately bars throwing, striking, or otherwise operating potentially dangerous flying or propelled objects, including model airplanes or rockets, except in areas the city designates for that use, as part of an authorized sport or recreational activity, or with the director's written permission.

Under § 46-42(b), the list of prohibited park activities is not exhaustive; the parks director can prohibit additional activities by rule, regulation, and public posting to protect public health, safety, and welfare, meaning a park could be posted to bar drones even where a sign is not the sole basis for the general prohibition. Section 46-30 confirms Article II, and its restrictions, applies to all city-owned or city-operated parks, open spaces, trails, golf courses, and recreational facilities.