Arizona Statewide Rule

Arizona Commercial Drone Operations and State Preemption

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Arizona (2026)

Key Facts

Preemption Statute: ARS 13-3729
Federal License: FAA Part 107 required
Local Authority Limit: Launch/landing on public land
Critical Infrastructure Rule: State surveillance ban

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Arizona State Legislature

Summary

Arizona commercial drone pilots operate under FAA Part 107 and ARS 13-3729 state rules, with cities barred from imposing separate licensing or operational regulations.

Except as authorized by law, a city, town or county may not enact or adopt any ordinance, policy or rule that relates to the ownership or operation of an unmanned aircraft or unmanned aircraft system or otherwise engage in the regulation of the ownership or operation of an unmanned aircraft or an unmanned aircraft system. Any ordinance, policy or rule that violates this subsection, whether enacted or adopted by the city, town or county before or after August 6, 2016, is void.

Source: Arizona State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

ARS 13-3729 preempts municipal regulation of unmanned aircraft systems, including commercial use, leaving authority with the FAA and state criminal statutes. Commercial pilots must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, register the aircraft, and comply with airspace, altitude, and visual line-of-sight rules. Arizona criminal statutes prohibit interfering with emergency responders, surveilling critical infrastructure, and operating recklessly. Cities may restrict government-owned land use for launch and landing but cannot license or zone commercial flight operations.

Violations & Penalties

Operating commercially without a Part 107 certificate is a federal violation. State penalties apply for dangerous operations, and FAA fines for non-compliance can reach tens of thousands of dollars per incident.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arizona cities require a separate commercial drone permit?

No. ARS 13-3729 prevents municipalities from licensing or permitting commercial drone operations. Pilots only need FAA Part 107 certification and must comply with state criminal restrictions on flight conduct.

Can I fly a commercial drone over private property in Arizona?

Generally yes when complying with FAA Part 107, but Arizona's voyeurism and stalking laws still apply. Recording identifiable people in private settings without consent can trigger civil and criminal liability.

Sources

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