Recreational drone use in Santa Ana is governed primarily by FAA regulations. Recreational pilots must register their drone with the FAA, fly below 400 feet AGL, keep the drone within visual line of sight, and follow community-based organization guidelines. Santa Ana's proximity to John Wayne Airport (SNA) means much of the city falls within controlled airspace requiring LAANC authorization before flying.
Recreational drone use in Santa Ana follows FAA regulations under the Exception for Recreational Flyers (49 USC §44809). Drones must be registered with the FAA if over 0.55 lbs. Operators must fly below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and avoid airports, stadiums, and emergency response areas. California may impose additional local restrictions on park use and public property. Santa Ana parks may prohibit or restrict drone launches. Night flying requires anti-collision lights. The TRUST test is required for all recreational flyers.
FAA violations: $1,000 to $27,500 per incident. Local park violations: $50 to $500. Reckless operation near airports: criminal penalties.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle recreational drones.
See how Santa Ana's recreational drones rules stack up against other locations.
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