Recreational drone use in Fort Wayne is governed by FAA regulations. Operators must register drones over 0.55 lbs with FAA, pass the TRUST safety test, fly under 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and avoid Fort Wayne International Airport Class C airspace without LAANC authorization.
FAA rules under 49 USC 44809 (Exception for Limited Recreational Operations) govern recreational drone flight nationwide, preempting most local regulation of airspace. Requirements: FAA registration at faadronezone.faa.gov for drones over 0.55 lbs ($5 every 3 years), completion of the TRUST safety test, Remote ID compliance, fly below 400 feet AGL, visual line of sight at all times, yield to manned aircraft, no flying over people or moving vehicles, no night flight without anti-collision lighting. Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA) has Class C controlled airspace extending 5 nautical miles around the airport with a 4,000 ft ceiling. Drone flight in FWA Class C requires LAANC authorization obtained through apps like Aloft or AirMap. Fort Wayne parks may post local restrictions on takeoff and landing (FAA governs airspace but cities control ground use). Smith Field (SMD) also has Class D airspace requiring authorization.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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