Recreational drones in Miami-Dade County must comply with FAA regulations. Registration required for drones over 0.55 lbs. Flying near Miami International Airport and other controlled airspace requires LAANC authorization. County parks may restrict drone use.
Recreational drone operation in Miami-Dade County is governed primarily by FAA regulations. Drones weighing over 0.55 pounds must be registered with the FAA. Operators must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Miami-Dade County has significant restricted airspace around Miami International Airport, Opa-locka Airport, Homestead Air Reserve Base, and multiple smaller airports. Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) authorization is required to fly in controlled airspace. Florida Statute §330.41 preempts local drone regulation, meaning Miami-Dade cannot impose additional flight restrictions beyond what FAA and state law permit. County parks may restrict drone takeoff and landing from park property.
FAA violations for unregistered drones or airspace violations carry civil penalties up to $27,500 and criminal fines up to $250,000. Flying near airports without authorization is a federal offense.
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See how Miami-Dade County's recreational drones rules stack up against other locations.
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