Recreational drone operation in Portland is primarily governed by FAA regulations (14 CFR Part 107 and the Recreational UAS Safety Test). Portland Parks & Recreation prohibits drone takeoff and landing in Portland parks without a permit. Portland International Airport (PDX) and nearby airspace create restricted zones affecting much of the city.
Recreational drone pilots must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and follow FAA rules including flying below 400 feet AGL, maintaining visual line of sight, and yielding to manned aircraft. Portland's proximity to PDX creates FAA-controlled airspace over much of the city requiring LAANC authorization. Portland Parks rules prohibit drone takeoff and landing in city parks, natural areas, and community gardens without prior written permission. Flying over crowds, stadiums, and emergency response scenes is prohibited by federal rules.
FAA violations carry civil penalties up to $27,500 for hobbyists. Flying in restricted airspace near PDX without authorization is a federal offense. Violating Portland Parks drone rules may result in citation and fine. Privacy violations from drone surveillance may create civil liability.
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See how Portland's recreational drones rules stack up against other locations.
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