Colorado Recreational Drone Rules Under Federal and State Law

Federal law preempts most airspace regulation, requiring recreational pilots to register drones over 250 grams with the FAA, fly under 400 feet, pass the TRUST test, and yield to manned aircraft. Colorado adds state-specific limits: CRS 33-6-129 prohibits using drones to scout, harass, or take wildlife, and CRS 33-14.5-108 restricts drone use in Colorado Parks and Wildlife state parks without permission. Cities cannot regulate flight altitude or airspace but may restrict launch and recovery on city property.

Violating federal FAA rules can result in civil fines up to $32,666 per violation. Wildlife-related drone offenses are misdemeanors under Colorado statutes with fines and license revocation.