Kentucky Statewide Rule

Kentucky Commercial Drone Operations Under Part 107

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Kentucky (2026)

Key Facts

Federal rule: 14 CFR Part 107
Pilot cert: Remote Pilot required
Critical infrastructure: KRS 183.123
Contraband delivery: KRS 500.130
Local airspace rules: Preempted

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Commonwealth of Kentucky

Summary

Commercial drone operations in Kentucky require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, with airspace rules preempting local restrictions. State law adds protections against surveillance over critical infrastructure and private property under KRS 183.123 and related statutes.

(3) Except as provided in subsection (12) of this section, any business entity doing business lawfully within this state may use an unmanned aircraft system for business purposes, in compliance with 14 C.F.R. pt. 107. Business entities operating an unmanned aircraft system pursuant to this subsection may include but are not limited to: (a) A property appraiser, assessing property for ad valorem taxation with the express, prior, written permission of the owner, tenant, occupant, invitee, or licensee of the privately owned real property; (b) A utility or communications service; (c) An entity conducting aerial mapping; (d) An entity conducting cargo; (e) An insurance company or a person acting on behalf of an insurance company for purposes of underwriting an insurance risk or investigating damage to insured property; or (f) An entity conducting images necessary for the safe operation or navigation of an unmanned aircraft system that is being used for a purpose allowed under federal or Kentucky law.

Source: Commonwealth of KentuckyView official code

Full Breakdown

Commercial drone use is governed by 14 CFR Part 107, requiring Remote Pilot certification, drone registration, Remote ID compliance, and airspace authorization for controlled airspace via LAANC. Kentucky enacted KRS 183.123 limiting drone surveillance over correctional facilities and certain critical infrastructure. KRS 500.130 addresses unmanned aircraft used to deliver contraband. Local governments may regulate ground-based aspects, such as commercial drone takeoff from public property or business licensure, but cannot regulate altitude, flight paths, or airspace. Operators flying for hire must also comply with Kentucky's general business licensing and tax requirements.

Violations & Penalties

Unauthorized commercial flight without Part 107 certification can result in FAA civil penalties; surveillance of restricted facilities or contraband delivery may trigger Kentucky misdemeanor or felony charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Kentucky cities require commercial drone permits?

Cities may require business licenses and regulate takeoff from city property, but cannot impose airspace, altitude, or flight path rules preempted by federal aviation law.

Can I fly a commercial drone over a Kentucky prison?

No. KRS 183.123 prohibits flying drones over correctional facilities, and KRS 500.130 makes contraband delivery by drone a serious criminal offense.

Sources

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