Wisconsin Statewide Rule

Wisconsin Commercial Drone Operation Rules

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Wisconsin (2026)

Key Facts

Federal rule: FAA Part 107
No-fly statute: Wis. Stat. 114.045
Surveillance crime: Wis. Stat. 942.10
Remote ID: Required

Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: Wisconsin State Legislature

Summary

Wisconsin commercial drone operators follow FAA Part 107. Wis. Stat. 114.045 sets state no-fly zones over prisons, schools, and utilities, and local governments cannot regulate flight itself. State privacy and surveillance statutes still apply.

942.10 942.10 Use of a drone. Whoever uses a drone, as defined in s. 175.55 (1) (a) , with the intent to photograph, record, or otherwise observe another individual in a place or location where the individual has a reasonable expectation of privacy is guilty of Class A misdemeanor. This section does not apply to a law enforcement officer authorized to use a drone pursuant to s. 175.55 (2) . 942.10 History

Source: Wisconsin State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

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 Part 107 waivers. Wis. Stat. 114.045 restricts flights over correctional institutions, schools in session, and near utility facilities, with forfeitures up to $5,000, and state and federal law preempt local rules on flight. Wis. Stat. 942.10 prohibits drone surveillance where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy. Law enforcement use is governed by Wis. Stat. 175.55, generally requiring a warrant.

Violations & Penalties

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for commercial drone work in Wisconsin?

An FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Wisconsin does not issue a separate commercial drone license, and local governments cannot impose additional flight permits.

Can a city require a drone permit?

Local governments generally cannot regulate drone flight or require flight permits, though they may control take-off and landing from their own property. Wis. Stat. 114.045 bars flights over prisons, schools, and utilities.

Can I fly my drone over private property for a job?

Yes if you follow Part 107 and avoid surveilling people in places with a reasonable expectation of privacy. Wis. Stat. 942.10 prohibits drone surveillance in private spaces.

Sources

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