Arkansas's stunning landscapes, from the Ozark Mountains to the Mississippi Delta, are a natural playground for drone enthusiasts. But before you take flight, understanding the legalities is crucial. This blog post dives into the key drone regulations in Arkansas, covering both federal and state laws.
Federal Drone Laws in Arkansas
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sets the groundwork for drone use nationwide, including Arkansas. Here's a quick rundown:
- Commercial Operations: For commercial drone flights (business purposes), you must comply with the FAA's Part 107 Small UAS Rule. This involves acquiring a Remote Pilot Certificate by passing the Aeronautical Knowledge Test.
- Recreational Flying: Hobbyists flying for fun must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and follow the FAA's recreational model aircraft rules. Drones exceeding 0.55 lbs (250g) require registration with a $5 fee. Additional FAA rules govern airspace, altitude, and line-of-sight operation.
- Government Use: Government agencies (police, fire departments) can operate under Part 107 or obtain a federal Certificate of Authorization (COA).
Arkansas State Drone Laws
Arkansas has specific laws regarding drone use, enacted by the Arkansas General Assembly:
- Privacy Protection: HB 1349 (2015) prohibits using drones to record someone with a reasonable expectation of privacy.
- Critical Infrastructure Security: HB 1770 (2015) safeguards critical infrastructure (power plants, hospitals) by making it illegal to collect information about them using drones without authorization.
State Park Regulations
Taking to the skies in Arkansas State Parks requires permission:
- Special Use Permit: Operating a drone in any Arkansas State Park necessitates a Special Use Permit from the Office of the Director. While official documentation might be elusive online, you can request a permit by emailing a copy of your drone registration and proof of liability insurance to parks.info@arkansas.gov.
Local Drone Ordinances (Currently Unknown)
Our research didn't uncover any local drone laws in Arkansas. However, this doesn't guarantee there aren't any. If you're aware of specific local ordinances, let us know in the comments!
Staying Informed
Drone regulations can evolve, so it's wise to check for updates from the FAA and Arkansas authorities. We aim to keep this post current, but if you notice any discrepancies, please share them!
Fly Responsibly, Explore Freely!
With a solid understanding of Arkansas's drone laws, you can embark on your aerial adventures with confidence. Remember, prioritize safety by adhering to regulations and flying cautiously. Now get out there and capture breathtaking aerial vistas of Arkansas's natural beauty!
Disclaimer:
Remember, this article serves as a guide and not a substitute for legal advice. If you have insights or updates regarding drone laws in Arkansas feel free to reach out to us.