Wisconsin Statewide Rule

Wisconsin Recreational Drone Preemption and Privacy

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Wisconsin (2026)

Key Facts

No-fly statute: Wis. Stat. 114.045 (prisons, schools, utilities)
Privacy crime: Wis. Stat. 942.10
Weaponized drones: Banned, Wis. Stat. 941.292
Altitude limit: 400 feet AGL
Registration: Drones over 250g

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Wisconsin State Legislature

Summary

Wisconsin has a partial drone framework: local governments generally cannot regulate drone flight, but Wis. Stat. 114.045 sets state no-fly zones over prisons, schools, and utilities. Recreational pilots follow FAA recreational rules and Wisconsin's drone-privacy crime.

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.

Source: Wisconsin State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Wis. Stat. 114.045 restricts drone flights over correctional institutions, over schools while in session, and near power, water, and telecom facilities, with forfeitures up to $5,000. Recreational flyers must follow the FAA recreational exception: pass the TRUST test, register drones over 250 grams, broadcast Remote ID, and stay at or below 400 feet. Wis. Stat. 942.10 makes it a Class A misdemeanor to use a drone to photograph someone where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Wis. Stat. 941.292 bars weaponized drones. Municipalities may regulate take-off and landing on their own property but not airspace flight.

Violations & Penalties

Drone-privacy violations under Wis. Stat. 942.10 carry up to 9 months jail and a $10,000 fine. Weaponizing a drone is a Class H felony. FAA rule violations bring federal civil penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my city ban drone flights?

Not the flight itself. Wisconsin and federal law preempt local regulation of airspace. Cities may restrict take-off and landing from their own parks or property, and Wis. Stat. 114.045 bars flights over prisons, schools, and utilities.

Can I photograph my neighbor with a drone?

No. Wis. Stat. 942.10 makes it a Class A misdemeanor to use a drone to photograph or observe someone in a place where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, like a backyard or home.

Do I need to register my hobby drone?

Yes if it weighs more than 250 grams. Recreational pilots must register with the FAA, pass the TRUST test, and broadcast Remote ID under federal rules.

Sources

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