Recreational drone use in Detroit is governed by FAA regulations. Operators must follow the FAA's recreational flying rules including TRUST certification. Detroit parks and certain areas near the airport have additional restrictions.
Recreational drone operators in Detroit must comply with FAA rules under 44 USC 44809. Drones must be registered with the FAA if they weigh between 0.55 and 55 pounds. Operators must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) before flying. Drones must fly below 400 feet AGL, within visual line of sight, and not over people or moving vehicles without proper authorization. Detroit is near Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and Coleman A. Young International Airport (DET), both of which have controlled airspace requiring LAANC authorization or FAA approval before flying. Flying drones in Detroit city parks may be restricted; check with the Detroit Parks and Recreation Department. Night flying requires anti-collision lighting visible for 3 statute miles.
Flying without FAA registration can result in civil penalties up to $27,500 and criminal penalties up to $250,000. Unauthorized flights in controlled airspace near airports can result in FAA enforcement action. Reckless or dangerous drone operation may violate Michigan law.
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