Montgomery County, MD Drone Rules: Recreational Drones (2026)

Recreational drone operations in Montgomery County are subject to multiple layers of regulation. The entire county lies within or adjacent to the DC Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA), a 30-nautical-mile radius around Reagan National Airport established after September 11, 2001. Flying any drone within the SFRA requires prior FAA authorization through the LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) system or a specific waiver. Much of the county also falls within the Class B airspace of Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), requiring additional authorization. Under FAA rules, recreational drone pilots must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), fly below 400 feet AGL, maintain visual line of sight, and yield to manned aircraft. Montgomery County Department of Parks (M-NCPPC) prohibits drone takeoff and landing in county parks without a written permit from the Park Manager. Drones may not be flown over people, moving vehicles, or within 5 miles of airports without LAANC authorization. Night flying requires anti-collision lighting visible for 3 statute miles.