Manitou Springs, CO Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)
Key Facts
- Covered aircraft
- Under 55 lbs, hobby or recreational use
- Weaponized drones
- Banned outright
- Wildlife harassment
- Expressly prohibited
- FAA proof
- Must show registration/waiver on request
- Noise limit
- Must meet § 6.08.020 noise ordinance
- Violation penalty
- Misdemeanor, drone may be impounded
- Enacted
- Ord. No. 0421, § 1, 3-2-2021
Summary
Manitou Springs regulates every hobby drone under Municipal Code Chapter 6.85, banning flights that interfere with property use, carry a weapon, harass wildlife or violate an FAA waiver. Breaking any of the chapter's twelve listed prohibitions is a misdemeanor, and the city can impound the drone on top of any fine.
The use and operation of all pilotless aircraft within the city shall be subject to the following prohibitions: A.No pilotless aircraft shall be operated:1.Over any property in a manner that causes direct and immediate interference with the use or enjoyment of that property; ... 4.In a reckless or negligent manner; ... 8.To intentionally or knowingly harass, annoy, or disturb wildlife; ... 12.In violation of federal or state law, or any other city ordinance.
Full Breakdown
020 as a powered aerial vehicle without a human pilot, weighing under fifty-five pounds, flown by remote control or onboard computer for a hobby or recreational purpose and commonly called a drone or unmanned aircraft system. 040 permit; conducting surveillance without legal permission or a court order; capturing a person's image or recording anywhere they have a reasonable expectation of privacy; intentionally harassing, annoying or disturbing wildlife; flying over emergency response efforts; harassing, annoying or assaulting a person or creating a nuisance or trespass; violating an FAA certificate of waiver or authorization; and violating any other federal, state or city law.
The chief of police may loosen or tighten these rules during an emergency or public-safety threat. 020. 070 exempts law enforcement, emergency and authorized military personnel acting in their duties, critical infrastructure operators monitoring their facilities, and anything preempted by FAA rule. 080 makes a violation a misdemeanor under Chapter 1, Section 16, and lets the city impound the drone.
Violations & Fines
Breaking any Section 6.85.030 prohibition is a misdemeanor punishable under Chapter 1, Section 16 of the code. Beyond any court-imposed fine, Section 6.85.080 lets the city impound the drone, and it stays impounded until a judge orders its return or the owner satisfies the city it will comply with the chapter going forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly my hobby drone anywhere in Manitou Springs?
Is drone photography of my neighbor legal here?
What happens if my drone breaks the rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Manitou Springs
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