Georgia state law (O.C.G.A. §6-1-4) preempts local governments from regulating private drone operations, so Tybee Island cannot pass its own drone ordinance. The Tybee Island Light Station has private no-fly periods (Mon-Sun 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.) during operating hours. FAA Part 107 and recreational rules apply: stay under 400 feet AGL, keep visual line of sight, and register drones over 250g.
Georgia preempts municipal drone regulation under O.C.G.A. §6-1-4, meaning Tybee Island, Savannah, Atlanta and every other Georgia city are prohibited from creating or enforcing local ordinances that regulate private drone operations. As a result, recreational drone flight on Tybee Island is governed primarily by FAA rules. Recreational pilots must keep drones under 400 feet AGL, maintain visual line of sight, avoid manned aircraft, register drones weighing more than 250 grams with the FAA, and pass the TRUST safety test. Drones over the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum are prohibited during operating hours (Wednesday through Monday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) by private-property authority, not a local ordinance. The City retains general police powers for reckless endangerment, harassment, or invasion of privacy under Georgia state criminal statutes — those provide a backup enforcement mechanism if a drone is used unsafely or to harass.
FAA violations (flying over 400 feet, losing line of sight, flying near manned aircraft) carry federal penalties up to $32,666 per violation. Reckless conduct, invasion of privacy, or harassment with a drone can trigger state criminal charges. Tybee Island Police (912-786-5600) handle complaints and coordinate with the FAA for federal-level violations.
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