Vermont Statewide Rule

Vermont Recreational Drone Use Under Federal Preemption

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Vermont (2026)

Key Facts

Federal rule: 14 CFR Part 107
VT statute: 20 V.S.A. Section 4622
Registration: FAA, drones over 250g
Local authority: Take-off, landing only
Surveillance: Warrant generally required

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Vermont General Assembly

Summary

Recreational drone operation in Vermont is governed primarily by FAA regulations, with state law limiting government surveillance use under 20 V.S.A. Section 4622 and providing privacy protections that apply uniformly across municipalities.

(a) A person shall not fly a drone for hobby or recreational purposes at an altitude of less than 100 feet above privately owned real property unless the person has obtained prior written consent from the property owner. (b) A person shall not, without the prior written consent of the property owner or occupant, use a drone to record an image of privately owned real property or of the owner or occupant of the property with the intent to conduct surveillance on the person or the property in violation of the person's reasonable expectation of privacy.

Source: Vermont General AssemblyView official code

Full Breakdown

Federal Aviation Administration rules under 14 CFR Part 107 and the Recreational Flyer exception preempt most state and local regulation of drone flight, including registration, airspace, and operating limits. Vermont law under 20 V.S.A. Section 4622 restricts how state and local law enforcement may use drones for surveillance, requiring warrants in many circumstances. Vermont also provides civil remedies for drone-related harassment and trespass. Municipalities may regulate take-off and landing on town-owned property but cannot regulate drones in flight. Recreational pilots must register drones over 250 grams with the FAA and follow community-based safety guidelines.

Violations & Penalties

Unauthorized surveillance, reckless operation, or violation of FAA rules may result in federal penalties up to $27,500 per violation and Vermont civil liability for trespass or harassment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Vermont town ban recreational drone flight?

Towns generally cannot regulate drones in flight because of FAA preemption. They may control take-off and landing on town-owned land and address nuisance behavior on the ground.

Can Vermont police use drones to monitor my property?

20 V.S.A. Section 4622 generally requires a warrant for law enforcement drone surveillance, with limited emergency, search and rescue, and consent exceptions established in state law.

Sources

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