Recreational drone use in Tucson is primarily governed by FAA regulations. The city has a no-drone zone over Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and its surrounding airspace. Tucson city parks generally allow recreational drone use but operators must follow FAA rules including registration for drones over 0.55 lbs, visual line-of-sight operation, and altitude limits of 400 feet AGL.
Recreational drone pilots must pass the FAA TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) and register drones weighing more than 0.55 lbs. Flying within 5 miles of an airport (including Davis-Monthan AFB and Tucson International Airport) requires LAANC authorization through the FAA. Tucson has not enacted a separate local drone ordinance. Arizona state law (ARS 13-3729) preempts most local drone regulations but allows cities to regulate drone use on city-owned property.
FAA violations can result in civil penalties up to $27,500. Criminal penalties apply for reckless or dangerous operation. Flying over Davis-Monthan AFB without authorization is a federal offense.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pima County.
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