Gaithersburg, MD Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Gaithersburg is located within the Washington DC Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA), which extends 30 nautical miles from Reagan National Airport (DCA). This is one of the most restricted airspace environments in the United States. Recreational drone operators must comply with FAA rules under 14 CFR Part 107 and the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations (49 USC 44809). Within the SFRA, all drone flights require prior FAA authorization. The inner ring of the SFRA is the Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ), extending 15 nautical miles from DCA. Gaithersburg is near the boundary of the FRZ and operators must verify their exact position relative to this boundary. Flights within the FRZ require specific TSA vetting and additional coordination. For areas outside the FRZ but within the SFRA, recreational operators can obtain authorization through the FAA LAANC system or DroneZone portal. Drones must remain below 400 feet AGL, within visual line of sight, and away from other aircraft. Flying over people and moving vehicles is prohibited. Gaithersburg city parks may have additional restrictions on drone use. The city does not issue separate drone permits but may restrict flying in certain public areas for safety reasons. Contact the FAA at 866-835-5322 for SFRA questions.