Recreational drone flights over Elkhart County follow federal law 49 U.S.C. § 44809: register drones over 250 grams, pass the free TRUST test, stay below 400 feet, and keep visual line of sight. Airspace near Elkhart Municipal and Goshen airports needs LAANC authorization.
Elkhart County does not regulate recreational drones; the FAA controls the airspace over Elkhart, Goshen, and surrounding towns. Under 49 U.S.C. § 44809 you may fly for fun without a Part 107 certificate if you register any drone over 250 grams, pass the free TRUST test, keep the drone within visual line of sight, stay below 400 feet, and yield to crewed aircraft. Elkhart Municipal Airport, Goshen Municipal Airport, and nearby South Bend International create controlled or sensitive airspace where LAANC authorization applies. Indiana adds IC 35-33-5-9, which bars police from using a drone over private property without a warrant.
The FAA can impose civil penalties in the thousands of dollars for flying an unregistered drone, above 400 feet, or in controlled airspace without authorization. Reckless flights or unlawful surveillance can also draw Indiana criminal charges.
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