Florida Commercial Drones Law: Statewide Drone Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

State Statute: Fla. Stat. 330.41
Federal Rule: 14 CFR Part 107
Surveyor Exception: Fla. Stat. 934.50(4)
Local Authority: Preempted

Full Breakdown

Under Fla. Stat. 330.41, no county or municipality may regulate commercial drone operations, including delivery, photography, surveying, or inspection services. Operators must hold an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 107. State law preserves narrow exceptions for limiting takeoff and landing on critical infrastructure or government property under Fla. Stat. 330.41(4). Surveillance of private property remains restricted by Fla. Stat. 934.50, with carve-outs for licensed surveyors, utility inspections, and law enforcement under warrant.

Violations & Penalties

Operators violating FAA rules face federal civil penalties up to $32,666 per violation. State surveillance violations under Fla. Stat. 934.50 carry civil damages and attorneys' fee awards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Florida cities license commercial drone operators?

No. Local commercial drone licensing is preempted by Fla. Stat. 330.41. Operators need only FAA Part 107 certification and any required state surveying or professional licensure.

Can a commercial drone fly over private Florida property?

Generally yes, subject to FAA airspace rules, but capturing images of areas with reasonable privacy expectations may violate Fla. Stat. 934.50 absent a statutory exception.

Florida Commercial Drone Operations Statewide Rules

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

See something wrong?