Missouri’s drone laws have evolved as the popularity of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has increased. While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides broad guidelines for drone operations, Missouri has specific state regulations that drone operators must follow to ensure legal compliance. Whether you’re interested in recreational drone flying or using UAVs for business purposes, it’s essential to be aware of these state-specific laws. This article dives deep into the unique aspects of Drone Laws in Missouri and provides you with the essential information you need to fly legally in the Show-Me State.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the governing body responsible for regulating drone use in the United States, including Missouri.
💡 Pro Tip: Even hobbyists should consider passing the Part 107 test for added flexibility and legal coverage.
Unlike many other states, Missouri does not have specific state-level drone laws enacted by the Missouri General Assembly as of 2025. This doesn’t mean you’re free to do anything—it means you must follow federal rules and any local municipal regulations.
Summary: The Missouri state government defers drone regulation to the FAA and local jurisdictions.
Local municipalities in Missouri have implemented unique regulations. These are critical to follow if you’re flying in specific cities or counties.
Always check local government websites or contact park authorities for the most recent drone laws before flying.
✅ Allowed
📋 TRUST test required
📝 Registration if > 0.55 lbs
🛰 Remote ID required
🛡 Insurance recommended but not mandatory
🎯 Hobbyists flying for fun must follow 49 USC 44809 guidelines.
✅ Allowed
🧑✈️ Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) required
📝 Registration mandatory
🛰 Remote ID required
🛡 Insurance recommended for business liability
📌 Commercial pilots have more responsibilities, especially when operating near airports or populated areas.
✅ Allowed
🧑✈️ Must hold a valid COA or Part 107 license
📝 Registration and Remote ID mandatory
🛡 Insurance not legally required, but often part of agency protocol
✅ Allowed
🧑✈️ Must obtain FAA Foreign Pilot Authorization
📝 Must register their drone
🛰 Must comply with Remote ID
🛡 Insurance is recommended
Foreign visitors need to comply with all FAA and local rules, just like U.S. citizens.
You cannot fly a drone anywhere you want, even if it’s open land.
Only Part 107 pilots can submit advanced requests.
While not legally required, drone insurance is strongly recommended, especially for:
Recommended Providers:
A liability claim without coverage can bankrupt your project or personal finances.
Violations can lead to:
Always fly responsibly. It’s not just about avoiding tickets — it’s about safety.
Yes, drones are legal in Missouri for recreational, commercial, government, and educational purposes—provided they comply with FAA regulations and applicable local ordinances.
Missouri follows federal FAA rules for drone operations. There are no specific statewide drone laws, but some cities and counties have their own local restrictions.
Federal laws require drone pilots to follow FAA rules: Part 107 for commercial use, TRUST test for recreational use, drone registration for drones over 250g, and Remote ID compliance.
Missouri has no state-specific drone legislation. However, some local jurisdictions like Jackson County, St. Louis, and Columbia have drone-specific park or permit ordinances.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the primary regulatory body. Local parks and cities may also enforce additional drone usage policies.
Yes, recreational drone flights are allowed in Missouri under FAA guidelines and any applicable local rules.
Yes, if your drone weighs more than 0.55 lbs (250g), you must register it with the FAA.
Yes, all recreational pilots must pass the TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) before flying.
You can fly in open areas, away from people and private property. However, some public parks restrict drone usage unless authorized.
Missouri does not have a statewide policy, but local parks (e.g., in St. Louis or Columbia) often require permits. Always check park-specific rules.
Yes, commercial drone flights are permitted in Missouri under FAA Part 107 regulations.
Yes. You must have a Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107 license) issued by the FAA.
Yes, all commercial drones must be registered through the FAA’s DroneZone portal.
Not legally required, but highly recommended—especially when flying in urban or high-risk areas.
Yes, Remote ID is mandatory for most commercial drone operations as of March 16, 2024.
Yes, tourists can fly drones in Missouri, but they must follow FAA regulations.
Yes, foreign operators must obtain FAA authorization, typically by passing the Part 107 test.
Yes. All drones over 0.55 lbs must be registered—even for temporary visits.
No. Drones are banned in all U.S. National Parks, including those in Missouri.
No, Missouri defers to FAA guidelines for all drone operations, including those by foreign pilots.
Yes, public agencies like police and fire departments may operate drones under Part 107 or a Certificate of Authorization (COA).
Yes, with FAA authorization. However, there are privacy and constitutional considerations at the federal and local levels.
Yes. Government pilots must either have a Part 107 license or operate under a valid COA.
Yes, unless exempted under specific federal agency permissions.
Yes, government drones must be registered, although under a different FAA category than hobby or commercial drones.
Jackson County requires drone permits and liability insurance for flying in county parks.
No, unless you’re in a designated drone zone or have a permit from the park director.
Only with a Board of Public Service Permit, pilot license, and $1M insurance coverage.
You may only fly at Buder Park and designated areas of Antire Valley.
Flying drones in county parks is prohibited without a special permit.
Use the FAA’s B4UFLY app or any LAANC-supported UAS service provider to check for restricted airspace.
Only with FAA approval through the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system.
Yes. Always consult FAA airspace maps to avoid flying near military installations.
No. Flying over moving vehicles or large crowds is prohibited without FAA waivers.
Yes, under Part 107 you can fly at night if your drone has anti-collision lighting and you’re properly certified.
B4UFLY is an FAA-endorsed mobile app that tells you where it’s safe to fly. It’s highly recommended for all drone pilots in Missouri.
LAANC is a system that provides real-time FAA authorization to fly in controlled airspace. It’s available throughout Missouri at participating airports.
Use FAA-approved apps like Aloft, AirMap, or Skyward to submit authorization requests.
Yes. As of March 16, 2024, all drone operators must comply with Remote ID unless operating in FAA-Recognized Identification Areas (FRIAs).
Either use a drone with built-in Remote ID capability or attach a Remote ID broadcast module and register it with the FAA.
Visit the FAA DroneZone website. Registration costs $5 and is valid for 3 years.
Yes. Hobbyists can register all drones under a single number. Commercial drones must be registered individually.
Pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an approved testing center and apply for a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Yes, all registered drones must display the registration number on the aircraft’s exterior.
Yes, fines can reach up to $27,500 in civil penalties and even higher for criminal violations.
Open, rural areas or designated drone parks like Buder Park in St. Louis County are great for beginners.
Avoid flying over people, private property, or near airports without proper authorization.
You should always seek permission to avoid potential privacy complaints or legal issues.
While not required, it’s strongly advised—especially for commercial and public safety drone pilots.
The FAA website, Missouri Department of Transportation, and your local city government websites are great resources for updates.
The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not, and should not be interpreted as, legal advice. The content of this article is not a substitute for professional advice, consultation, or services. Always seek the advice of a qualified attorney with any questions you may have regarding legal matters. The author and publisher are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented herein.
Drone laws in Missouri may seem straightforward at first glance due to the lack of state-level regulation. However, federal laws and localized restrictions make it essential for every drone pilot — hobbyist, commercial, or government — to stay informed and prepared.
Whether you’re filming scenic landscapes in St. Louis or mapping farms in the Ozarks, being compliant with Missouri drone laws ensures safe skies and an enjoyable experience.
TL;DR: Know the rules, check your airspace, get authorized, insure your drone, and fly smart.
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