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Davenport, IA Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Registration
FAA, if over 0.55 lbs
TRUST Test
Required for all flyers
Max Altitude
400 feet AGL
Local Ordinance
None; FAA governs
Iowa Evidence Law
§808.15 warrant rule

Summary

Recreational drones in Davenport follow FAA rules, not a local ordinance: register any drone over 0.55 pounds, pass the free TRUST test, stay under 400 feet, and keep the aircraft in visual line of sight.

Information obtained as a result of the use of an unmanned aerial vehicle is not admissible as evidence in a criminal or civil proceeding, unless the information is obtained pursuant to the authority of a search warrant, or unless the information is otherwise obtained in a manner that is consistent with state and federal law.

Source: Davenport Municipal CodeView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.

Full Breakdown

Davenport does not regulate recreational drones locally; hobbyist flights fall under the FAA's Exception for Recreational Flyers (49 U.S.C. §44809). Drones over 0.55 pounds must carry FAA registration ($5, valid three years), and every recreational flyer must pass the TRUST safety test. Operators fly below 400 feet, within visual line of sight, and clear of Davenport Municipal Airport (DVN) and Quad City International Airport (MLI); controlled airspace needs LAANC authorization. Iowa Code §808.15 bars drone-gathered information as court evidence absent a warrant. Launching from city parks may require Parks and Recreation permission.

Violations & Fines

FAA penalties for unsafe recreational operation reach tens of thousands of dollars, and reckless flight near airports carries federal criminal exposure. Davenport imposes no local drone fine, but trespass and nuisance rules still apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Davenport require a drone permit?
No. Davenport has no drone ordinance. You follow FAA recreational rules: register drones over 0.55 pounds, pass the TRUST test, and fly under 400 feet.
Can I fly my drone in a Davenport park?
Parks are open to hobby flying, but organized or commercial launches may need permission from Parks and Recreation. Stay clear of crowds and airport airspace.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Davenport

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All Davenport rules

Compare Davenport to another location·View the Iowa drone rules overview

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