Santa Clara, CA Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

60 (Unmanned Aircraft Systems), added by Ordinance No. 010 that it "is intended to operate in conjunction with any applicable existing laws and regulations, including those of the Federal Aviation Administration," so it layers local, location-based limits onto FAA airspace rules rather than replacing federal drone regulation. 030(b): it is unlawful to operate a drone below 200 feet above ground level (1) over any public or private school facility during school hours, (2) over critical infrastructure, defined to include emergency services facilities and energy sector facilities for electricity, oil or natural gas, or (3) over private property in a manner that harasses someone or violates their privacy rights.

030(a)(3), both of which hit recreational fliers just as hard as commercial operators since the code does not distinguish between the two. 020(c) as "any homemade or commercially available device" that navigates without an onboard pilot. 040(b), though a permit never excuses noncompliance with FAA rules or any other law. 050 with criminal, civil or administrative discretion, and a violation can be charged as a misdemeanor with the drone subject to confiscation.