Florida Statewide Rule
Florida Commercial Drone Operations Statewide Rules
Key Facts
- State Statute
- Fla. Stat. 330.41
- Federal Rule
- 14 CFR Part 107
- Surveyor Exception
- Fla. Stat. 934.50(4)
- Local Authority
- Preempted
Summary
Commercial drone operations in Florida are regulated by federal FAA Part 107 and state law; local governments cannot impose additional commercial operation restrictions.
(b) Except as otherwise expressly provided, a political subdivision may not enact or enforce an ordinance or resolution relating to the design, manufacture, testing, maintenance, licensing, registration, certification, or operation of an unmanned aircraft system, including airspace, altitude, flight paths, equipment or technology requirements; the purpose of operations; and pilot, operator, or observer qualifications, training, and certification.
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 leaves local governments only narrow room, such as generally applicable ordinances on nuisance, voyeurism, harassment, and property damage under Fla. Stat. 330.41(3). 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 that can exceed $30,000 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?
Can a commercial drone fly over private Florida property?
Sources
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