Recreational drone use in Chula Vista is governed by FAA regulations. Drones must be registered with the FAA if they weigh 0.55-55 pounds. Operators must fly below 400 feet and maintain visual line of sight. Brown Field Municipal Airport in southern Chula Vista creates restricted airspace. Notably, Chula Vista was part of the FAA's UAS Integration Pilot Program and has been at the forefront of drone technology adoption for public safety uses.
Recreational drone use in Chula Vista follows FAA regulations under the Exception for Recreational Flyers (49 USC §44809). Drones must be registered with the FAA if over 0.55 lbs. Operators must fly below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and avoid airports, stadiums, and emergency response areas. California may impose additional local restrictions on park use and public property. Chula Vista parks may prohibit or restrict drone launches. Night flying requires anti-collision lights. The TRUST test is required for all recreational flyers.
FAA violations: $1,000 to $27,500 per incident. Local park violations: $50 to $500. Reckless operation near airports: criminal penalties.
Chula Vista, CA
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Chula Vista, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
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