Lincoln, NE Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)
Key Facts
- Max altitude
- 400 feet
- Airport buffer
- 5 miles, notification required
- Line of sight
- Required at all times
- Toy aircraft
- Exempt from restrictions
- Penalty
- Infraction under § 1.24.010
Summary
Lincoln caps recreational drone flights at 400 feet, bars flying within five miles of Lincoln Airport without notifying the Airport Authority and control tower, and requires the operator keep the aircraft in visual line of sight.
In addition to the above restrictions, Model Aircraft shall not be operated: i. at an altitude in excess of 400 feet; ii. within five miles of Lincoln Airport unless the Airport Authority of the City of Lincoln and the Lincoln Airport Control Tower have been first notified; or iii. outside the visual line of sight of the operator.
Full Breakdown
Under Lincoln Municipal Code Chapter 4.28, model aircraft flown within the city may not exceed 400 feet altitude, may not operate within five miles of Lincoln Airport unless the Airport Authority of the City of Lincoln and the Lincoln Airport Control Tower are notified first, and must stay within the operator's visual line of sight. All operators must also fly with FAA registration and markings and never in a careless or reckless manner. Public aircraft and toy aircraft are exempt from these restrictions.
Violations & Fines
Violating any provision of Section 4.28.080 is an infraction, punishable under the general infraction penalty set out in Lincoln Municipal Code § 1.24.010.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly my drone over 400 feet in Lincoln?
Do I need to notify anyone to fly near Lincoln Airport?
Are toy drones exempt from these rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lincoln
Compare Lincoln to another location·View the Nebraska drone rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.