Ceres, CA Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)
Key Facts
- Max altitude
- 400 feet (absent FAA authorization)
- Max speed
- 50 mph
- Bystander buffer
- 25 feet minimum
- Flight window
- Daylight hours only
- Max penalty
- $1,000 fine / 6 months jail
Summary
Ceres caps drone flights at 400 feet and 50 mph, requires visual line of sight, daylight-only operation, and a 25-foot buffer from bystanders.
A. No person shall operate any drone in the City beyond the visual line of sight of the person operating the drone. B. No person shall operate any drone other than during daylight hours. C. No person shall operate any drone more than 400 feet above the earth's surface and no faster than 50 miles per hour unless written proof of authorization to do so is obtained from the FAA and is provided to the City and verified.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Municipal Code: Supplement 4).
Full Breakdown
Ceres Municipal Code Chapter 9.20 regulates all drone operation citywide, recreational and commercial alike. Operators must keep the aircraft within unaided visual line of sight, fly only during daylight hours, stay under 400 feet altitude and 50 mph unless FAA-authorized, and stay at least 25 feet from any bystander except the operator's own party. The chapter also bars flying under the influence, careless or reckless operation, and privacy-invading recording, and sets 500-foot no-fly buffers around City Hall, police and fire stations, schools in session, and other protected sites unless the facility administrator authorizes it in writing.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor: up to 6 months in county jail and/or a fine up to $1,000; City may instead pursue an administrative fine under Title 19; drones flown in violation may be forced down and impounded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly my drone at night in Ceres?
How close can a drone fly to City Hall or a police station?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ceres
California rules heatmap·Compare Ceres to another location·View the California drone rules overview
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