Federal and local laws regulate the use of drones and how they can be used in Louisville. The City and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) each have rules about flying drones. Anyone flying a drone must follow all federal and local guidelines.

Per Municipal Code Sec. 4.04.010 and 14.12.010, you may not discharge, take off, land or operate by remote control any motorized or non-motorized aircraft, manned or unmanned, including but not limited to drones, missiles, rockets, helicopters, ultralights and gliders/sailplanes in any City parks or open space. Emergency landings, as determined by City law and code enforcement officers, are allowed.

FAA rules dictate certain key rules about drones, as well. For instance, there’s an important difference between whether you’re flying a drone recreationally (not for money-making purposes) or commercially (for money-making purposes). For more information and a more complete list of FAA regulations, please visit https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/.

If interested in operating a drone from or over Boulder County Parks and Open Space, you should check with the County to make sure you’re following their regulations. Also before operating a drone on any school grounds, make sure to check with the school to make sure you’re operating safely and legally.

To report drone-related issues in the City, please contact the Police Department at 303.666.8634.