Recreational drones in Flint are regulated primarily by federal law and Michigan's Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act. The FAA requires registration for drones over 0.55 lb, the TRUST test, and flight under 49 U.S.C. §44809. Michigan PA 436 of 2016 (MCL 259.301+) preempts most municipal drone ordinances.
Drone regulation in Flint is layered. Federally, recreational fliers must follow 49 U.S.C. §44809 — fly under 400 ft AGL in uncontrolled airspace, keep visual line of sight, register drones over 0.55 lb with the FAA, mark the registration number, pass the TRUST test, and never interfere with manned aircraft. Bishop International Airport (KFNT) lies just south of the city and its controlled airspace requires LAANC authorization for any flight inside it. Commercial drone work needs an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Michigan's Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act (Public Act 436 of 2016, MCL 259.301 to 259.305) preempts most municipal regulation of drones — Flint cannot enact rules covering operation, registration, or licensing — but municipalities retain authority over takeoff and landing on municipal property. Michigan DNR rules restrict drone use over certain state lands.
Unregistered drones over 0.55 lb, flights in Bishop Airport airspace without LAANC, flights above 400 ft AGL, or commercial work without Part 107 bring FAA civil penalties under 49 U.S.C. §46301. Reckless or harassing use may bring state charges under MCL 259.322 (interference) or general Michigan harassment statutes.
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