Orange County prohibits operation of drones and radio-controlled devices in all county parks, beaches, and recreational areas under Section 2-5-42 of the Codified Ordinances except in designated areas approved by the Director. FAA rules including TRUST certification also apply.
Orange County Codified Ordinance Section 2-5-42 prohibits any person from possessing or operating radio-controlled or remotely operated models, toys, or similar devices including drones, cars, boats, rockets, airplanes, or gliders in any park, beach, or recreational area except in areas designated and under conditions established by the OC Parks Director. Violation is classified as an infraction. Beyond county parks, all recreational drone operators must comply with FAA regulations: complete the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), register drones weighing over 0.55 pounds for $5, fly below 400 feet AGL, maintain visual line of sight, and yield to manned aircraft. Orange County airspace near John Wayne Airport (SNA) is controlled airspace extending approximately five miles, requiring LAANC authorization for drone flights in that zone.
Violating Section 2-5-42 is an infraction under county code. FAA violations can result in federal civil penalties up to $75,000 and criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment.
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