Drone Zoning: Protecting Property Rights and Local Control Below 200 Feet.
This Act redefines airspace control, granting State, local, and Tribal governments authority over drone operations below 200 feet (the "immediate reaches of airspace"). This change explicitly protects property owners, requiring commercial drone operators to obtain permission before flying or landing in this low-altitude zone above private land. It empowers local communities to set reasonable restrictions on drone noise and location.
Key points
Airspace below 200 feet AGL is excluded from exclusive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) control for civil drones, strengthening property rights.
Commercial drones cannot operate in this low-altitude zone above private property without the owner's permission.
State and local governments gain authority to set reasonable restrictions on the time, manner, and place of drone operations (e.g., near schools, parks, or due to noise).
Local zoning authority over drone take-off and landing zones is preserved.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_905
Sponsor: Sen. Lee, Mike [R-UT]
Process start date: 2023-03-21