Minneapolis, MN Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 385.40, Minneapolis Code of Ordinances
- No-fly buffer
- 25 feet from any person, no permission
- Careless operation
- banned regardless of distance
- Federal/state control
- FAA and MN Statutes govern conflicts
- Penalty
- set by § 1.30 general penalty
Summary
Minneapolis bars operating a small drone carelessly and flying one within 25 feet of a person on the ground without that person's explicit permission, under City Code § 385.40.
No person shall operate or assist the operation of any small unmanned aircraft carelessly or heedlessly in disregard of the rights of persons on the ground or in disregard of the rights of owners, users, or occupants of real or personal property that is on or under the ground or in any way connected thereto. No person shall fly a small unmanned aircraft within twenty-five (25) feet of any individual person on the ground or in or on real or personal property located on the ground without the explicit permission of such person.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).
Full Breakdown
Minneapolis Code of Ordinances § 385.40 regulates unmanned aircraft citywide. Operators must comply with all FAA regulations and Minnesota Statutes, which control whenever they conflict with the city rule. Flying a small unmanned aircraft (under 55 pounds at takeoff) carelessly or heedlessly, in disregard of people or property on the ground, is banned, as is flying within 25 feet of any person without that person's explicit permission. The section also created a special-event no-launch zone covering central Minneapolis, requiring a permit from the Director of Regulatory Services for takeoffs or landings there, but only during listed 2018-2019 event windows tied to past major events. Violations carry the general penalty set in § 1.30.
Violations & Fines
Careless operation or flying within 25 feet of a person without permission violates § 385.40; penalties follow the general penalty schedule set in § 1.30 of the Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to fly a recreational drone in Minneapolis?
How close can I fly my drone to another person?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Minneapolis
Compare Minneapolis to another location·View the Minnesota drone rules overview
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