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San Bernardino County, CA Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: FAA 14 CFR Part 107 →

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Key Facts

Federal Rules: 14 CFR Part 107
Altitude: 400 ft max
Restricted: R-2508 military area
Parks: Permit required

City-specific rules exist: San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, Ontario, and Victorville have their own recreational drones rules that differ from San Bernardino County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Drone operators in unincorporated San Bernardino County must follow FAA 14 CFR Part 107 or Recreational Flyer rules. County parks and military R-2508 airspace restrict drone flight.

Full Breakdown

Drone operation in unincorporated San Bernardino County is primarily governed by federal FAA regulations. Recreational pilots must pass the TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test), operate line-of-sight, below 400 feet, and follow community-based safety guidelines. Commercial operators must be certified under 14 CFR Part 107. San Bernardino County contains significant restricted and special-use airspace: the R-2508 complex over the Mojave Desert (Edwards AFB, Fort Irwin/NTC, China Lake airspace), military operating areas, and airspace around MCLB Barstow — drone flight in these areas is largely prohibited without special authorization. Drone launching and landing is prohibited in San Bernardino County Regional Parks without permit per Parks Department rules. National forests (San Bernardino National Forest covering Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead area) have USFS restrictions, and BLM desert lands have BLM rules. California Civil Code 1708.8 (anti-paparazzi) and Penal Code 402 (privacy) also apply. Do not fly over people, emergency scenes, or active wildfires.

Violations & Fines

Federal FAA violation: civil penalties up to $27,500 per violation, possible criminal charges. County parks drone use without permit: citation. Interference with firefighting: federal felony under 18 USC 39B.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly my drone in unincorporated San Bernardino County?

Yes, following FAA rules (Part 107 for commercial, Recreational Flyer rules for hobby). Large portions of the county are under restricted military airspace (R-2508) where drone flight is prohibited without authorization.

Can I fly my drone over a wildfire?

No. Interfering with firefighting aircraft is a federal felony under 18 USC 39B with fines up to $75,000 and potential prison time. The FAA issues Temporary Flight Restrictions over active fires.

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San Bernardino County, CA Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

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