Recreational drone use in Fresno is primarily governed by FAA regulations, including the requirement to register drones weighing 0.55 to 55 pounds and pass the TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test). Fresno does not have a specific local drone ordinance but applies general public safety and nuisance provisions. Drones may not be flown over 400 feet AGL, within 5 miles of Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) without FAA authorization, or over people and vehicles.
Recreational operators must comply with 49 USC §44809 and FAA guidelines. Fresno Yosemite International Airport and Fresno Chandler Executive Airport create significant airspace restrictions across much of the city. Operators must use the FAA's B4UFLY app or LAANC system to check airspace authorizations. City parks may restrict drone use under parks and recreation rules. Flying drones in a manner that endangers people or property may violate California Penal Code provisions regarding reckless behavior.
FAA violations can result in civil penalties up to $27,500 or criminal penalties up to $250,000. Local violations for nuisance or reckless operation may result in misdemeanor charges.
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not regulate decorative lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round yard decorations on private property. Property maintenance standards in FMC Chapt...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not specifically regulate residential inflatable holiday displays. There is no size cap, lighting curfew, or fan-noise limit specific to inflatab...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not have a specific ordinance regulating residential holiday light displays. Display dates, brightness, and decorative content are not regulated ...
Fresno, CA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Fresno require building, electrical, plumbing, and gas permits under FMC Chapter 11 (Building Regulations), which adopts the Cal...
Fresno, CA
Fresno does not have a specific ordinance regulating backyard smokers or wood-fired ovens by time of day. Use is governed by the general nuisance provisions ...
Fresno, CA
Fresno enforces the California Fire Code (CFC) as adopted in FMC Chapter 10, Article 5 (Fire Prevention). Under CFC §308.1.4 (the California amended version ...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fresno County.
See how other cities in Fresno County handle recreational drones.
See how Fresno's recreational drones rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.