If you're a drone enthusiast or a professional drone pilot in Arizona, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial. With the soaring popularity of drones, both for recreational and commercial purposes, it's essential to stay informed about the rules and regulations governing their use. In this article, we'll delve into Arizona's drone laws, both at the federal and state levels, to ensure you fly your drone safely and legally.

Federal Drone Laws in Arizona

Regardless of where you are in the United States, federal drone laws apply. In Arizona, this means adhering to the regulations set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

For commercial drone pilots, operating drones for work or business purposes necessitates compliance with the FAA's Part 107 Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Rule. This involves passing the Aeronautical Knowledge Test to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate.

Hobbyists, flying drones for recreational purposes, must take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and adhere to the FAA's recreational model aircraft rules. Additionally, drones weighing more than 0.55 lbs (250g) require registration with the FAA.

Government employees, such as those working in law enforcement or firefighting, can operate drones under Part 107 or obtain a federal Certificate of Authorization (COA).

It's essential to note that while these federal regulations provide a framework, they do not supersede state laws.

State Drone Laws in Arizona

Arizona has its own set of drone laws established by the Arizona State Legislature.

One such law, SB 1449 enacted in 2016, imposes regulations on drone usage within the state:

• Drones cannot interfere with police, firefighters, or manned aircraft.
• Flying a drone in close proximity to individuals or property is considered Disorderly Conduct.
• Drones are prohibited from operating within 500 feet horizontally or 250 feet vertically of critical facilities, including but not limited to oil and gas facilities, power plants, and military installations.
• Cities and towns with multiple parks must allow drone usage in at least one park.
• Municipalities are barred from creating their own drone laws, with regulation falling under state jurisdiction.

Additionally, Arizona State Parks & Trails prohibit recreational drone use within their premises. Commercial drone operations within these parks require a film permit.

Local Drone Laws in Arizona

Certain regions within Arizona may have specific drone laws enacted by local authorities. For instance:

• The Town of Prescott Valley has a municipal ordinance governing drone use by city employees, outlining various scenarios for drone operations.
• Phoenix City Code Section 24-49 prohibits drone take-off or landing in most city parks, except for designated model aircraft/drone use parks.
• Maricopa County ordinances prohibit drone operations in county-owned parks or recreation areas not designated for such use, emphasizing public safety.

Stay Updated and Fly Responsibly

As the drone industry evolves, so do regulations. Staying updated on Arizona's drone laws is crucial for all drone enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you're capturing breathtaking aerial footage or utilizing drones for commercial ventures, adhering to these laws ensures safe and responsible drone operation.

Remember, this article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for legal advice.