Drone Rules in Massachusetts (2026)

5 rules on the books across Massachusetts, 2 cities and counties. Select a rule to read the full details.

Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions

Recreational Drones

Local rules for flying drones as a hobby, including where you can fly, altitude limits, and restrictions near parks and public events.

Massachusetts has no statewide omnibus drone statute, so recreational flying follows federal FAA rules. But across the…

Newton lets residents fly recreational drones under 55 pounds but bans operating them over private property without…

Additional permits and requirements for using drones for business purposes like photography, delivery, or inspections.

Commercial drone operations in Boston require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and LAANC authorization for…

Bans on launching, landing, or operating drones in city and county parks, with exceptions for designated model-aircraft fields.

Launching or landing a drone on land run by Newton's parks, recreation and culture department, or any other…

Temporary flight restrictions over stadiums, parades, and major public events, plus the federal sports-stadium TFR rules.

Groups that want to fly drones as part of an organized event on city land need an event permit under Newton City Code…