Fairfield, CA Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

FAA jurisdiction over the National Airspace System (NAS) generally preempts state and local drone regulation on flight altitude, speed, and operational restrictions in navigable airspace under 49 U.S.C. §40103, though localities retain authority over takeoff and landing locations and over local-government property uses. The recreational flyer framework (49 U.S.C. §44809) requires: (1) flying for recreational purposes only; (2) following the safety guidelines of a community-based organization (e.g., AMA); (3) keeping the UAS within visual line of sight; (4) yielding right-of-way to manned aircraft; (5) flying below 400 feet AGL in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace, or obtaining authorization in controlled (Class B/C/D/E) airspace via LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability); (6) passing The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carrying proof; (7) registering the UAS if weight exceeds 0.55 lb (250g); and (8) maintaining Remote ID broadcast as of the March 16, 2024 enforcement deadline. The presence of Travis Air Force Base (KSUU) and the Nut Tree Airport (KVCB) in or near Fairfield means most of the city sits in Class D or Class C controlled airspace where LAANC authorization is required before flight. Pilots can request authorization through approved LAANC providers (Aloft, KittyHawk, AirMap). California Civil Code §1708.8 (the 'paparazzi' / aerial privacy tort) creates liability for capturing visual images of a person engaged in a personal activity with a UAS in a manner offensive to a reasonable person. California Penal Code §402b prohibits drone flight that interferes with emergency response, and §853.71 addresses drone harassment. Property owners retain trespass remedies under common law for low-altitude flights over their property that interfere with use and enjoyment. State parks (Rockville Hills is a City of Fairfield park, not a state park) and the California Department of Parks and Recreation generally prohibit drone takeoff and landing in state parks under 14 CCR §4319.