Nelson Drone Rules: Recreational Drones Rules (2026)

Recreational drone operation in unincorporated Clark County is primarily governed by federal law — the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under 14 CFR Part 107 (Small UAS Rule) and the FAA Reauthorization Act (49 USC 44809 for recreational flyers). Federal rules take precedence over local drone restrictions, but local governments can regulate where drones take off and land on local property. Key federal rules for recreational flyers include: register drones weighing 0.55 lb (250 g) to 55 lb through the FAA; fly below 400 feet AGL; maintain visual line of sight; do not fly over people, moving vehicles, or in controlled airspace without LAANC authorization; avoid emergency response operations; and pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Clark County local rules include: Clark County Parks prohibit drone takeoff, landing, and operation in county parks under Title 19 unless specifically permitted. McCarran/Harry Reid International Airport surrounds a large Class B airspace zone covering much of the Las Vegas Valley, requiring FAA LAANC authorization to fly in controlled airspace. The Las Vegas Strip (unincorporated Paradise) is in heavily restricted airspace and designated Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are frequently in effect for major events like NFL, F1, and high-profile conventions. Nellis Air Force Base airspace north of the Valley is highly restricted. Drone operation over crowds at stadiums, concerts, and events is generally prohibited. Recreational operation outside these restricted zones — such as open desert areas with appropriate distance from airports, people, and private property — is permitted following federal rules.