FAA rules govern recreational drones. Registration and TRUST test required. Catalina State Park bans launches; Town parks may restrict at events.
Federal law governs recreational drone operations under 49 USC 44809. All recreational pilots must pass the FAA TRUST exam and carry proof of completion. Drones between 0.55 and 55 pounds require FAA registration with the number displayed on the aircraft. Maximum altitude is 400 feet AGL. Pilots must yield right of way to manned aircraft and never fly near other aircraft. Oro Valley is not within controlled airspace (nearest is Davis-Monthan AFB/Tucson International Class C, roughly 15 miles south), but pilots should check current airspace via the B4UFLY app. Town parks and recreation areas may prohibit drone operations at special events or in areas with wildlife sensitivity. The Catalina State Park adjacent to Oro Valley prohibits drone launches per Arizona State Parks policy. ARS 13-3729 prohibits using drones to photograph or surveil private property with the intent to harass.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Oro Valley, AZ
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