Flying drones in Michigan, whether for recreational or commercial purposes, is subject to federal and state regulations to ensure safety and minimize risks. This guide provides a detailed overview of the drone laws in Michigan, including both federal and state-level requirements, local restrictions, and specific rules governing drone operations across the state.
Federal Drone Laws in Michigan
Federal laws set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) apply to all drone operations in Michigan, whether for commercial or recreational purposes.
Commercial Drone Operation
If you are flying a drone for business purposes in Michigan, you must follow the FAA's Part 107 Small UAS Rule. This requires you to:
- Pass the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test.
- Obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate.
- Follow specific airspace, altitude, and operational restrictions.
Recreational Drone Operation
For recreational drone use in Michigan:
- You must pass the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST).
- Register your drone if it weighs more than 0.55 lbs (250g).
- Follow FAA rules such as maintaining a visual line of sight and staying below 400 feet in altitude.
Government Drone Operation
Government agencies in Michigan can operate drones under either the FAA’s Part 107 Rule or obtain a Certificate of Authorization (COA) for certain operations.
Note: The information here is for guidance only and is not a substitute for legal counsel.
Learn more about FAA Drone Laws.
State Drone Laws in Michigan
The Michigan Legislature has passed several state laws that supplement federal drone regulations. These laws apply to all drone operations in Michigan and address various issues like privacy, interference with emergency services, and restrictions in certain areas.
Mich. Admin. Code R. 318.146 (2024)
This law mandates that unmanned aircraft (UAS) operations in Michigan require written permission from relevant authorities if they fall outside federal guidelines.
Senate Bill 992 (2016)
SB 992 addresses several important regulations, including:
- Prohibiting local governments from regulating UAS, except for drones owned by the locality.
- Allowing commercial and recreational drone operations if the operator complies with federal regulations.
- Prohibiting drones from interfering with emergency responders, violating privacy, or being used by sex offenders to contact prohibited individuals.
- Criminal penalties for violating these provisions.
Senate Bill 54 (2015)
SB 54 specifically prohibits the use of drones to interfere with or harass individuals who are hunting or fishing in Michigan.
Order 5.1 (State Parks and Recreation Areas - 2019)
This order restricts drone use in Michigan’s state parks and recreation areas, including:
- No drone operations near cultural or historical sites.
- A ban on flying over occupied beach areas, equestrian facilities, or restrooms.
- Commercial drone operators must obtain prior written permission.
Local Drone Laws in Michigan
Some cities and counties in Michigan have additional local restrictions on drone operations. Below are a few notable examples:
Town of West Bloomfield - Municipal Ordinance (2016)
This ordinance prohibits drone flights in all town parks, making it a no-fly zone for drones.
University of Michigan - University Policy (2017)
The University of Michigan has strict policies against drone operations over its campus unless the operator obtains prior approval. Violations may result in fines or civil penalties.
Mt. Brighton Ski Resort - Vail Properties Policy (2020)
The resort prohibits the use of recreational or commercial drones on its property, except in cases where the operator has FAA exemption and written permission from the resort.
General Rules for Flying Drones in Michigan
Here are the essential rules that all drone operators in Michigan must follow:
Drone Laws For Recreational Flyers:
- You must pass the TRUST test and carry proof of completion.
- Register your drone with the FAA if it weighs more than 0.55 lbs.
- Fly your drone only for recreational purposes, following safety guidelines.
- Keep the drone within your visual line of sight and under 400 feet in altitude.
- Avoid flying in restricted airspace without prior FAA authorization.
For Commercial Flyers:
- You must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107.
- Register your drone with the FAA and display the registration number.
- Ensure your drone is equipped with Remote ID for compliance with new FAA regulations.
- You may need to request specific flight authorizations depending on the airspace.
For Foreign Visitors:
- Foreign visitors flying drones in Michigan must comply with FAA regulations, including obtaining the appropriate Remote Pilot Certificate and registering the drone with the FAA.
- It is also recommended for foreign visitors to have drone insurance.
Important Drone No-Fly Zones in Michigan
Drone pilots must be aware of no-fly zones across Michigan. Some key areas include:
- State Parks: As per Order 5.1, drones cannot be flown near historical or cultural sites or over restricted areas such as beaches and equestrian facilities.
- University of Michigan: No drone operations are allowed over the campus unless approved through the official application process.
To ensure your flight is legal, check for any airspace restrictions or local rules before operating your drone.
How to Obtain Permission for Drone Operations in Michigan
If you plan to fly in a restricted area or engage in commercial operations, you may need to get prior written permission. Contact the relevant local authorities or use the FAA's DroneZone to request the necessary approvals. For operations over airports or in controlled airspace, you can use LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) to apply for automatic authorization.
FAQs regarding Drone Laws in Michigan
1. Are drones allowed in Michigan?
Yes, drones are allowed in Michigan as long as operators follow both federal FAA regulations and applicable state and local laws.
2. Do I need to register my drone in Michigan?
Yes, if your drone weighs more than 0.55 lbs (250g), you must register it with the FAA.
3. Can I fly my drone recreationally in Michigan?
Yes, recreational drone flights are permitted in Michigan, provided they adhere to FAA rules.
4. What are the state laws on drone use in Michigan?
State laws govern drone usage in Michigan, including privacy protections, airspace rules, and restrictions on drones interfering with emergency responders.
5. Are there any local laws regulating drones in Michigan?
Yes, some local governments in Michigan have ordinances that restrict drone use in certain areas, such as parks or public spaces.
6. Can drones be flown at night in Michigan?
Yes, drones can be flown at night in Michigan, but operators must follow FAA rules and may require special authorization.
7. Is commercial drone use allowed in Michigan?
Yes, commercial drone use is allowed in Michigan, but operators must comply with FAA regulations, including obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate.
8. Do I need permission to fly a drone in Michigan state parks?
Yes, you need prior written permission from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to fly drones in state parks and recreational areas.
9. Are drones allowed at the University of Michigan?
Drones are generally prohibited on the University of Michigan campus unless approved by the Institutional Autonomous Systems Committee (IASC).
10. Can drones be used for hunting in Michigan?
No, Michigan law prohibits using drones for hunting or fishing activities.
11. Can I fly my drone over private property in Michigan?
Flying over private property without consent could violate privacy rights and result in legal consequences in Michigan.
12. What is the penalty for flying a drone illegally in Michigan?
Penalties for illegal drone use in Michigan may include fines, impoundment of the drone, or even criminal charges, depending on the violation.
13. Are there specific rules for flying drones near airports in Michigan?
Yes, drones are prohibited from flying near airports without prior FAA authorization. This includes no-fly zones and controlled airspace.
14. Can I fly a drone in Michigan’s national forests?
Yes, you can fly drones in Michigan's national forests, but you must comply with all federal and state regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
15. Are drones allowed in Michigan’s historical sites?
Drones are prohibited from flying within 100 yards of cultural or historical sites in Michigan, according to state regulations.
16. Can I fly drones over the beach in Michigan?
No, drones are prohibited from flying over occupied beaches in Michigan to protect the privacy of beachgoers.
17. Do I need insurance to fly a drone in Michigan?
Insurance is not required by law in Michigan, but it is recommended, especially for commercial operators.
18. Are drones allowed in Michigan’s urban areas?
Yes, drones are allowed in urban areas as long as you comply with FAA rules and any local ordinances that may apply.
19. Are drones allowed at Michigan sports events?
It depends on the event and location. Some venues may have restrictions on drone use due to safety concerns.
20. What is the maximum altitude I can fly my drone in Michigan?
The FAA limits drone flight to a maximum altitude of 400 feet above ground level in Michigan, unless operating in controlled airspace with authorization.
21. Are drones allowed in Michigan’s parks?
Drones are allowed in most Michigan parks, but you must check local rules and obtain written permission from the DNR if required.
22. Do I need to notify anyone before flying my drone in Michigan?
You should check if the area requires special permissions or if you need to notify local authorities or the FAA before flying.
23. Are there laws regarding drone surveillance in Michigan?
Yes, drones cannot be used for surveillance that invades a person’s privacy in Michigan, including surveillance on private property without consent.
24. Can I fly my drone over a crowd in Michigan?
Flying a drone over large crowds is prohibited by the FAA unless you have special authorization for such operations.
25. Can local governments regulate drone use in Michigan?
Generally, local governments in Michigan cannot regulate drones, except for specific cases such as local park restrictions or city ordinances.
26. How do I get FAA approval to fly a drone in Michigan?
You can request FAA approval through the LAANC system, or you may need a waiver if you are flying in restricted airspace or under special conditions.
27. Can drones be used for commercial filming in Michigan?
Yes, but commercial drone filming in Michigan requires FAA approval, and in some cases, you may need special local permits or permissions.
28. Are there any no-fly zones in Michigan?
Yes, there are no-fly zones in Michigan, including areas near airports, military facilities, and certain government buildings.
29. How do I check for no-fly zones before flying a drone in Michigan?
You can use the FAA's B4UFLY app to check for airspace restrictions and no-fly zones before flying.
30. Can I fly drones for search and rescue in Michigan?
Yes, drones can be used for search and rescue in Michigan, but you must follow all applicable state and federal rules and coordinate with emergency responders.
31. Are there laws about drone use in Michigan’s ski resorts?
Yes, most ski resorts in Michigan, such as Mt. Brighton, prohibit drones without prior approval due to safety concerns.
32. What are the rules for drone racing in Michigan?
Drone racing is permitted in Michigan, but participants must adhere to FAA regulations, and local event organizers may set additional safety guidelines.
33. Can drones be used for agricultural purposes in Michigan?
Yes, drones can be used for agricultural purposes in Michigan, including crop monitoring and land surveys, as long as operators comply with FAA and state laws.
34. Are drones allowed to fly near wildlife in Michigan?
Drones should not disturb wildlife in Michigan. The DNR may restrict drone use in certain wildlife areas to protect animals.
35. What should I do if I crash my drone in Michigan?
If you crash your drone, you should report the incident to the FAA if there is significant property damage or injury. You may also need to contact local authorities if the crash occurs in a restricted area.
36. Can drones be used to track wildlife in Michigan?
Drones can be used for wildlife tracking in Michigan with the proper permits from the Michigan DNR and any federal agencies.
37. Are there drone laws in Michigan for universities?
Yes, universities like the University of Michigan have their own drone policies, and operators must get approval before flying on campus.
38. Can I fly a drone near a prison in Michigan?
No, flying drones near prisons is generally prohibited by both state and federal law due to security concerns.
39. What is the minimum age to fly a drone in Michigan?
The FAA requires drone operators to be at least 16 years old to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate for commercial operations.
40. What are the airspace rules for drones in Michigan?
Drones must operate within the limitations set by the FAA, including avoiding restricted and controlled airspaces unless you have proper clearance.
41. Are there any drone laws specific to Michigan’s tourist destinations?
Some Michigan tourist destinations, such as Mackinac Island, may have their own drone regulations. Always check with local authorities before flying.
42. Can I fly a drone for research purposes in Michigan?
Yes, drones can be used for research in Michigan with the appropriate permissions from the FAA and relevant state agencies.
43. What happens if I fly a drone illegally in Michigan?
Violating drone laws in Michigan can result in fines, legal action, or confiscation of the drone.
44. Can drones be flown over Michigan’s lakes?
Yes, drones can be flown over lakes, but pilots should be cautious about weather conditions, potential interference with boats, and other obstacles.
45. What are the drone laws for universities in Michigan?
Universities in Michigan have their own regulations regarding drones, and operators must typically get approval before flying on university property.
46. How can I find out about drone laws in Michigan?
To find out about Michigan’s drone laws, you should consult the Michigan Department of Transportation’s website, local ordinances, or the FAA for federal regulations.
47. What is the Remote Pilot Certificate?
The Remote Pilot Certificate is required for commercial drone operators under FAA Part 107. It certifies that the operator has passed a knowledge test and understands the rules for commercial drone use.
48. Can I fly my drone over a school in Michigan?
Flying drones over schools in Michigan is generally prohibited without permission from the school administration and local authorities.
49. Are there any rules about flying drones over military bases in Michigan?
Yes, flying drones over military bases in Michigan is strictly prohibited unless you have special authorization from the FAA and the Department of Defense.
50. How can I get approval to fly a drone in Michigan’s restricted airspace?
To get approval to fly in restricted airspace in Michigan, you can apply through the FAA’s LAANC system or request a waiver for special circumstances.
Conclusion
Drone laws in Michigan combine federal regulations from the FAA with state and local ordinances to ensure the safe use of unmanned aircraft systems. Whether you're flying recreationally, for commercial purposes, or as a government agency, understanding these laws is essential for legal and safe operations. Always check for local restrictions and obtain the necessary permissions when required. By following these rules, you can enjoy the benefits of drone technology while contributing to the safety and security of Michigan’s airspace.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. Drone regulations are subject to change, and the specific rules governing drone operations in Michigan may evolve over time. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information presented, we encourage drone operators to consult official sources, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and relevant state and local authorities, for the most up-to-date regulations. Always ensure that you are in full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws when operating a drone in Michigan. The author and publisher of this article disclaim any liability for any loss or damage that may arise from reliance on the information contained herein.