Iowa Statewide Rule

Iowa Recreational Drone Rules Under Code 808.15 and FAA

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Iowa (2026)

Key Facts

FAA registration: Drones over 250 g
Max altitude: 400 feet AGL
TRUST test: Required for hobbyists
State surveillance limit: Iowa Code 808.15
Local ordinances: Generally none

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Iowa Legislature

Summary

Recreational drone use in Iowa is governed primarily by FAA Part 107 and the Recreational Flyers exception, with state limits in Iowa Code 808.15 on government surveillance. Iowa cities have not enacted drone-specific ordinances and are encouraged to defer to federal airspace rules.

A person commits intrusion by the use of a remotely piloted aircraft if the person knowingly does any of the following: a. Controls the flight of a remotely piloted aircraft over a homestead, if the homestead is not owned or leased by the person, and the remotely piloted aircraft remains over the homestead. b. Controls the flight of remotely piloted aircraft over a secure farmstead area, if the secure farmstead area is not owned or leased by the person, and the remotely piloted aircraft remains over the secure farmstead area.

Source: Iowa LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Federal law preempts most local airspace regulation, so Iowa recreational pilots must follow FAA rules: register drones over 250 grams, fly under 400 feet, keep visual line of sight, avoid controlled airspace without LAANC authorization, and pass the TRUST safety test. Iowa Code 808.15 prohibits state agencies from using drone-collected information as evidence in criminal or regulatory cases without a warrant or specific exception. Iowa Code 727.8 and 716.6 cover trespass and harassment principles relevant to drone operators. The Iowa League of Cities has cautioned local governments against passing ordinances that conflict with FAA authority.

Violations & Penalties

Operating without TRUST or registration, flying in controlled airspace, or using a drone to harass, surveil, or trespass can lead to FAA civil penalties up to $75,000 per violation and Iowa criminal charges under chapters 716 and 727.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an Iowa city ban hobby drones from a public park?

Cities can regulate take-off and landing on city-owned property and address nuisance behavior, but they cannot regulate flight in navigable airspace, which the FAA controls.

Do I need to take the TRUST test to fly a hobby drone in Iowa?

Yes. The FAA requires all recreational flyers in Iowa and nationwide to pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and carry proof of completion when operating.

Can police use drone footage as evidence against me?

Iowa Code 808.15 generally bars state agencies from using drone-gathered information as evidence in court without a warrant or a recognized exception, with limited exceptions for emergencies.

Sources

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