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San Diego, CA Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governing law
SDMC §52.5403, Division 54
Added
2017 by Ordinance O-20818
Enforced by
San Diego Police Department
Penalty
Misdemeanor under SDMC §12.0201
Federal flights
FAA-compliant drone use not restricted

Summary

Flying a drone carelessly, violating FAA flight restrictions, or interfering with police, fire, or emergency operations is a citywide misdemeanor under Municipal Code Division 54 - but the ordinance explicitly won't restrict flights that already comply with federal rules.

It is unlawful for any person to operate a Unmanned Aircraft System in the air, on the ground, or on the water: (a) in a careless or reckless manner so as to endanger the life or property of another... (b) in violation of any flight restriction, temporary or permanent, issued by the Federal Aviation Administration pursuant to 14 C.F.R. 91, as amended... or (d) in a manner that interferes with law enforcement, firefighting, or any government emergency operations.

Source: San Diego Park & Recreation – Park RulesView official code

Full Breakdown

San Diego Municipal Code Division 54 (SDMC Sections 52.5401-52.5405, added 2017 by Ordinance O-20818) makes it unlawful to operate a drone carelessly or recklessly, in violation of any FAA flight restriction issued under 14 C.F.R. Part 91, or in a way that interferes with law enforcement, firefighting, or emergency operations. The Police Chief enforces the Division, and violations are prosecutable as misdemeanors under the fine and custody schedule in SDMC Section 12.0201. The ordinance states it is not intended to restrict drones flown in compliance with federal rules, so the city layers a local safety rule on top of, not instead of, FAA authority over recreational drone flight.

Violations & Fines

Careless or reckless operation, flying in violation of FAA flight restrictions, or interfering with police, fire, or emergency responders - each prosecutable as a misdemeanor under SDMC Section 12.0201's fine and custody schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly a recreational drone in San Diego?
Yes - the city doesn't ban recreational drones, but SDMC §52.5403 makes careless or reckless flying, FAA flight-restriction violations, or interfering with police, fire, or emergency operations a misdemeanor.
Does San Diego regulate drones separately from the FAA?
No - Division 54 explicitly says it won't restrict drones flown in compliance with federal rules; it only adds local misdemeanor liability for unsafe or FAA-violating flights.

Sources & Official References

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All San Diego rules

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