Recreational drone use in Scottsdale is governed by FAA rules under the Exception for Recreational Flyers (Section 349 of the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act). Pilots must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Operations near Scottsdale Airport (SDL) require FAA authorization.
Recreational drone pilots in Scottsdale must comply with FAA rules: complete the TRUST test, fly below 400 feet AGL, maintain visual line of sight, yield to manned aircraft, and avoid flying over people and moving vehicles. Scottsdale Airport (SDL) creates controlled airspace over much of the city; recreational flights in this airspace require authorization through LAANC or by contacting the airport control tower. Arizona law (ARS §13-3729) prohibits flying over critical infrastructure, and ARS §13-3007 prohibits drone surveillance of private property. Scottsdale city parks and preserves have their own drone policies; the McDowell Sonoran Preserve restricts drone use to protect wildlife. City ordinances also apply to drone noise (treated the same as other noise sources under the noise ordinance).
Violations of FAA recreational rules may result in fines. Flying over critical infrastructure or conducting surveillance with a drone may result in criminal charges under Arizona law.
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