Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Hillsborough County, FL Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: FAA B4UFLY →

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Key Facts

FAA Rule: Part 107 / Exception
TPA Airspace: Class B LAANC required
MacDill: Restricted no-fly
Altitude: 400 feet AGL max
FL Statute: 330.41 and 934.50

City-specific rules exist: Temple Terrace, Plant City, and Tampa have their own recreational drones rules that differ from Hillsborough County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Hillsborough County drone operation governed by FAA Part 107 and Florida Statute 330.41 (Freedom from Unwarranted Surveillance Act). Tampa International Airport (TPA) Class B airspace covers most of central county. MacDill Air Force Base restricted airspace prohibits drones south of Gandy Boulevard. LAANC authorization required near TPA.

Full Breakdown

FAA preempts local drone airspace but county parks rules apply at ground level. Tampa International is Class B airspace with 30 nautical mile Mode C veil. Recreational flyers must use LAANC through B4UFLY app for authorized flights under 400 feet. MacDill AFB has designated special security airspace extending over Tampa Bay. Peninsular location creates significant no-fly zones. FL 934.50 prohibits drone use over critical infrastructure including port facilities.

Violations & Fines

FAA fines up to 27,500 dollars civil, criminal referral possible. MacDill intrusions may trigger federal law enforcement response. FL 934.50 violation is misdemeanor first, felony repeat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly near Tampa International?

Only with LAANC authorization through B4UFLY. TPA is Class B airspace and recreational flight below authorized altitude requires approval.

What about MacDill AFB?

Prohibited. MacDill has federal restricted airspace and drone flights may trigger DoD response.

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Hillsborough County, FL Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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