Wisconsin Commercial Drone Operation Rules

Commercial drone pilots in Wisconsin must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, register the aircraft, and broadcast Remote ID. Flights over people, at night, or beyond visual line of sight require specific Part 107 waivers or operations under the appropriate rule. Wis. Stat. section 114.045 preempts local ordinances regulating drones, ensuring uniform statewide rules. Wis. Stat. section 942.10 prohibits private surveillance with drones in places with reasonable expectation of privacy. Law enforcement use is governed by Wis. Stat. 175.55(2), generally requiring a warrant. Operators near critical infrastructure must comply with FAA airspace authorizations through LAANC.

FAA penalties for Part 107 violations can exceed $32,000 per incident. Surveillance violations under 942.10 are Class A misdemeanors. Operating without a certificate may bring federal civil and criminal exposure.