Phoenix, AZ Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)
Key Facts
- Weight limit (hobby)
- 55 lbs, line-of-sight
- Takeoff/landing in parks
- Designated sites only
- Operation site size
- 400 ft on all sides
- Minors under 17
- Must be adult-accompanied
- Max civil sanction
- $500 per day
Summary
Phoenix bans launching or landing hobby drones in city parks except at Director-designated sites meeting 400-foot safety zone rules.
No person shall operate a remotely controlled aircraft to take off or land in a park or preserve owned or operated by the City of Phoenix except in parks designated by the Director or designee in operation sites that meet the requirements of subsection E of this section. ... Dimensions of operation sites shall be no less than 400 feet on all sides. ... Children younger than 17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult when operating remotely controlled aircraft in City parks. ... A person found guilty of violating this section shall pay civil sanctions in an amount not to exceed $500.00 per day.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance G-7524, passed June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Phoenix City Code § 24-49 lets you fly a recreational drone (under 55 lbs, line-of-sight, AMA Safety Code) almost anywhere, but you may only take off or land one in a City of Phoenix park or preserve at operation sites the Parks Director has designated. Those sites must be unobstructed and at least 400 feet on all sides. Kids under 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Violations carry civil sanctions up to $500 per day, with each day a separate offense. Federal and state law control over the city rule whenever they conflict.
Violations & Fines
Civil sanctions up to $500 per day; each calendar day is a separate violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly a hobby drone anywhere in a Phoenix park?
What happens if I break Phoenix's drone rule in a park?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
Compare Phoenix to another location·View the Arizona drone rules overview
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Recreational Drones in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle recreational drones.