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Can You Fly A Drone In The Rain? 3 Reasons Why It’s A Bad Idea

As drone enthusiasts, we like to fly our drones regularly, but sometimes the weather can hinder us, especially those of us who live in cold and wet climates like me (UK). One question that frequently arises is, can you fly your drone in the rain? The simple answer is it depends on your drone’s specific features and capabilities. In this article, we’ll explore the risks of flying a drone in wet conditions, the impact on performance, and the steps you can take to protect your drone from rain damage. We’ll also discuss the drones that can be flown in the rain as well as popular consumer drones that are not designed for flying in the rain.

Can You Fly A Drone In The Rain?

I’ll assume that most people who are asking about flying drones in the rain are talking about consumer drones. Flying consumer drones in the rain is generally not recommended, as most consumer drones are not designed to withstand wet conditions. Rain can cause a multitude of problems for consumer drones, including electrical damage, reduced visibility, and flight instability. Moisture can seep into the drone’s internal components, potentially causing short circuits and permanent damage. Moreover, raindrops on the camera lens can obstruct aerial footage and make navigation challenging.

Can DJI Drones Fly In The Rain?

DJI are the largest drone company in the world; some of their most popular drones are from the Mini and Mavic range, and people often ask if these drones can be flown in the rain. The short answer is no; DJI discourages their customers from flying their consumer drones in the rain; it’s in all their manuals, and it may cause you to void the warranty.

However, there is evidence that suggests flying some of these drones in light rain will not damage them. People on popular drone forums have claimed to fly DJI drones in the rain without any adverse effects.

The DJI Mini 2 is one of the most popular mini drones, and people often ask if the Mini 2 can be flown in the rain; while I would discourage it, there is evidence that it can withstand rain. In the video below, a DJI Mini 2 fell into the water and was there for some time. However, the owner says that it was working fine after he had dried the drone.

I would never fly my drones in any adverse weather (I’m afraid to fly them even in mildly windy conditions); however, if you want to experiment, it’s best to fly in light rain.

These are expensive products, so it is never advisable to use them in ways that may cause serious issues. However, please do remember that flying a drone in wet conditions that are not designed to handle such conditions can void the warranty and result in costly repairs, so it is best to get some insurance for your drone.

Understanding IP Ratings

An IP (Ingress Protection) rating is an internationally recognised standard that indicates a device’s protection against solid particles, such as dust, and liquids, like water. The IP rating system is crucial for determining if a drone is suitable for wet conditions.

An IP rating typically consists of the letters “IP” followed by two digits. The first digit determines the level of protection against hard particles (ranging from 0 to 6), while the second digit represents protection against liquids (ranging from 0 to 8). The higher the number, the greater the level of protection.

For example, a drone with an IP rating of IP54 would have a solid particle protection level of 5 (dust-protected) and a liquid protection level of 4 (splash-resistant). On the other hand, a drone with an IP rating of IP67 would be dust-tight (level 6) and capable of withstanding temporary immersion in water (level 7).

When considering a drone for flying in the rain, look for a model with a high IP rating, particularly for the second digit. Here’s a quick overview of some common liquid protection levels:

• IPX4: Splash-resistant, able to withstand water splashes from all directions.
• IPX5: Protection against low-pressure water from all directions.
• IPX6: Protection against high-pressure water from any direction.
• IPX7: Capable of withstanding temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
• IPX8: Suitable for continuous submersion in water, with the depth and duration specified by the manufacturer.

Remember that an IP rating does not guarantee absolute protection, as it is based on controlled laboratory conditions. However, a higher IP rating will provide better protection against water ingress during rainy flights, helping to keep your drone safe and functional in adverse weather conditions. If your drone has one of the above IP ratings, you can fly your drone in the rain.

Drones With IP Ratings

In my experience, there are not many consumer drones with an IP rating; the ones that do have an IP rating are not consumer drones but have been developed for commercial applications.

SwellPro

SwellPro is a UK-based company specialising in waterproof drones; they have developed a range of drones that have been developed for commercial applications for tasks that need to be completed in wet conditions. All their drones have an IP67 rating; this is the highest IP rating I have seen for any consumer or industrial-grade drone. With an IP67 rating, SwellPro have the best waterproof drones on the market, their drones are very durable and can be operated in harsh weather conditions.

DJI

DJI are the leading drone manufacturer in the world; they are known for their exceptional high-quality drones used for various applications. As I mentioned, despite being the largest drone manufacturer, they still have not released a waterproof consumer drone that can be flown in the rain.

However, a few of their commercial drone can be operated in wet or rainy conditions. These include the DJI Matrice 200 and 300 series and the M30/M30T drones. The latter drones have an IP55 rating, the highest of any drone in the DJI range.

Parrot

Parrot is a well-known French drone company, and they have one drone that comes with an IP53 rating.

The Parrot Anafi USA is a rugged, weather-resistant drone with an IP53 rating. Its robust design makes it suitable for a range of professional applications, including search and rescue, surveying, and inspection tasks in wet environments.

Autel Robotics

The Autel Evo Max 4T is an industrial-grade drone that comes with some powerful features allowing it t be used for a wide range of applications. The drone has a rugged design and comes with an IP43 rating.

3 Reasons Why You Should Not Fly Your Drone In The Rain

As we have seen, there are drones that are able to withstand a little bit of rain, although they are not supposed to be flown in wet conditions. Flying drones that do not have protection against the rain can lead to several issues, including:

Electrical Damage

Most consumer drones are not waterproof or even water-resistant. When flown in the rain, water droplets can seep into the drone’s critical components, such as the motors, battery compartment, and internal circuitry. Moisture can lead to electrical shorts, causing immediate operational issues, or it can accumulate over time and cause corrosion. This can lead to the failure of the drone’s electrical system and, eventually, its complete breakdown. Repairing or replacing these components can be quite costly; in some cases, the drone might be rendered completely unusable.

Reduced Visibility

A drone’s camera is critical, especially for those using it for aerial photography or videography or for navigating the drone beyond the line of sight. When it’s raining, raindrops can splatter on the camera lens, significantly affecting the quality of the footage. It can result in blurred or spotted images, making them less usable for professional purposes. Furthermore, reduced visibility can make it more challenging to navigate the drone, increasing the risk of collision with obstacles that aren’t clearly visible, which could lead to damaging crashes.

Flight Instability

Rain affects the flight dynamics of a drone in a few ways:

The added weight of the water droplets on the drone’s body and rotors can make it more challenging to achieve and maintain stable flight. This can lead to increased power consumption and reduced flight times.

The impact of raindrops on the drone’s rotors can disrupt the airflow, affecting the drone’s lift and manoeuvrability. This can make the drone harder to control and potentially more susceptible to wind gusts.

Wet conditions often come with other adverse weather conditions like wind and fog, which can further compromise the drone’s flight stability and visibility.

Tips for Protecting Your Drone from Rain Damage

If you must fly your drone in wet conditions, consider the following tips to minimise the risk of damage:

1. Be Mindful of the Weather

Always check the weather forecast before you plan to fly your drone. If there’s a high chance of rain, postpone your flight until conditions improve. If you’re already out and it starts to rain lightly, land your drone as soon as possible to minimise exposure to water.

2. Quick Response Time

If you’re caught out in sudden light rain, land your drone immediately. The less time your drone spends in the rain, the less chance water has to seep into the internal components and cause damage.

3. Make Use of Protective Accessories

Even though your drone isn’t water-resistant, you can still protect it to some extent by using available accessories. For example, some companies sell drone “raincoats” or waterproof covers that can offer a level of protection. These can be useful for sudden unexpected showers, but they are not designed for prolonged use in wet conditions.

If you own a DJI drone, you may want to check out this store on Etsy; they sell wetsuits for many DJI drones, which will allow you to fly your drones in the rain.

4. Lower Your Altitude

Flying lower can help reduce the impact of rain on the drone and its camera. However, be extra cautious of ground obstacles when doing so.

5. Close Monitoring of Drone

Keep a close eye on your drone’s performance and battery life. Wet and windy conditions can strain the drone’s systems and drain the battery faster than usual.

6. Post-Flight Maintenance

As soon as you’re done flying, make sure to dry off your drone thoroughly. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the exterior, and consider using compressed air to ensure no water remains in crevices. Don’t forget to remove the battery and dry the compartment as well.

7. Practice Makes Perfect

If you know you might need to fly in light rain, practice landing your drone quickly and smoothly. This can help you bring your drone to safety as soon as possible when the rain starts.

Remember, most consumer drones, like the DJI Mini 2, DJI Air 2S, Phantom 4 etc., are not designed to withstand wet conditions. While these tips can help in light rain, it’s always safer to avoid flying in the rain whenever possible.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, to answer the question, can you fly your drone? We have found out that you probably can but should not and only do if you have some kind of protection, like a wetsuit for your drone.  However, in my opinion, it’s best to avoid wet conditions to minimise the risk of damage and maintain optimal performance. Always consider your drone’s capabilities, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, and stay informed about local weather conditions before taking your drone to the skies.

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How High Can A Drone Fly? – Drone news and reviews

With the ever-growing popularity of drones for both recreational and professional applications, enthusiasts and potential buyers often wonder, “how high can a drone fly?” In recent years, drones have revolutionised industries such as filmmaking, agriculture, and infrastructure inspection. This article will explore the factors affecting a drone’s altitude capabilities, the legal aspects surrounding drone flight heights, and the performance of drones at high altitudes. From understanding what drones can see at 400 feet above to discovering the highest-flying drones on the market, we delve into the soaring world of drones.

How High Can A Drone Legally Fly?

The maximum altitude a drone can legally fly largely depends on aviation regulations set by local authorities. In the United States, the  FAA enforces a maximum altitude limit of 400 feet (122 meters) above ground level (AGL) for both recreational and commercial drone flights. This limit aims to prevent interference with manned aircraft and ensure the safety of all airspace users.

In Canada and the UK, the maximum altitude limit is the same as in the USA. However, It is essential to familiarise yourself with local rules before operating a drone in a new area. In some cases, exceptions can be made through waivers for specific use cases, such as professional aerial photography, infrastructure inspection, and emergency response, among others.

Drones with the Highest Altitude Range

While most consumer and commercial drones are legally bound to operate below 400 feet, all models can reach impressive altitudes. Some of the highest-flying commercial drones on the market include:

DJI M30 – The latest drone in the DJI Matrice series has a maximum altitude of 7000 meters. The drone has a wide range of commercial uses thanks to its multi-sensor payload, flight time and video transmission range.

Matrice 300: The ultimate drone in the DJI Matrice series, the Matrice 300 is an all-weather drone that boasts a maximum altitude of 7000 meters. This versatile drone has many industrial applications thanks to its long flight time and multiple payload capabilities.

Autel Evo Max4T – One of the latest editions in the Evo range, the Max 4T drone boasts a vast range of features, including a multi-sensor payload, 42 minutes of flight time, and a 20km transmission range. Its maximum flight altitude is 7000 meters.

Autel Evo 2 Pro V3 – The latest version of the popular Evo 2 Pro drone from Autel Robotics boasts some stunning features. The drone has a flight time of 42 minutes, a video transmission range of 15km and a maximum altitude of 7000 meters.

DJI Phantom 4 RTK: Boasting a maximum altitude of 6,000 meters above sea level, this popular drone is a favourite for surveying and mapping applications. The drone also comes with omni-directional obstacle avoidance technology, 30 minutes of flight time and a video transmission range of 7km.

DJI Mavic 3: This versatile drone can reach a maximum altitude of 6000 meters above sea level, making it suitable for various professional applications, including search and rescue missions and industrial inspections.

All these drones have been developed for commercial applications; however, even consumer drones like the DJI Mini drones can reach altitudes of 5000 meters.

Please note that flying at such high altitudes will require special permissions and adherence to specific safety guidelines.

What Can Drones See from 400 Feet Above?

At 400 feet AGL, drones equipped with high-quality cameras can capture stunning aerial photographs and videos with impressive detail. From this height, a drone’s camera can provide a broad view of landscapes, cityscapes, and other large areas. For example, filmmakers can create breathtaking aerial shots, while agronomists can monitor crop health over large fields.

While individual details, such as human faces or license plates, may not be distinguishable, drones can still effectively capture the overall layout of properties, infrastructure, and natural features.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the question of how high a drone can fly depends on several factors, including the drone’s specifications, legal restrictions, and environmental conditions. As a drone operator, it’s essential to prioritise safety and adhere to local regulations when exploring the altitude capabilities of your drone. With a growing range of drones with high-altitude capabilities on the market, the possibilities for aerial photography, inspections, and other professional applications continue to expand. Remember to stay informed about local regulations and always put safety first when operating your drone at any altitude.

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Can You Bring a Drone to Vietnam?

Traveling is every photographer’s favorite activity. For American drone enthusiasts, Vietnam is an exciting vacation destination. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, the first thing you need to check is whether you can bring your drone with you.

You can bring a drone to Vietnam, but there are some restrictions. Most importantly, every drone flight must be approved with an official license application at least two weeks in advance. Additional guidelines exist that will ensure your safety while flying your drone.

Because you’ll want to follow the rules closely for the best possible drone experience in Vietnam, read on to find out the specific details.

Can I bring a drone to Vietnam?

Vietnam is known for its beautiful culture, amazing beaches, delicious food, and famous festivals. It’s pretty much a photographer’s dream come true.

You’ll definitely want to catch as many images as possible of this colorful country as soon as you land on its shores, but what about using your drone? Will you be allowed to bring it to capture aerial shots, as well?

Yes! As long as you follow some reasonable guidelines, you will be able to fly your drone legally in Vietnam. This is great news for all of us drone enthusiasts with wanderlust.

It’s not as simple as pulling out your camera, of course. There are several hoops you will need to jump through. If you’re determined to get some amazing drone footage, though, rest assured that it is possible.

For your safety abroad, it is essential to know and follow the guidelines when you’re there. This will help you have a successful trip with nothing but happy memories and awesome drone footage.

What guidelines will I need to follow for flying a drone in Vietnam?

It’s crucial to follow local drone guidelines when you are in another country for several reasons. The restrictions are in place for your safety and the safety of others. Also, this is their house, so you will want to respect their rules.

Luckily for drone enthusiasts, Vietnam’s limitations aren’t difficult to follow once you understand them.

Here are the most common rules you must follow when you are flying a drone in Vietnam:

• To fly a drone in Vietnam, you must apply for a permit at least two weeks (14 days) in advance of the drone flight. You will submit your application to the Operations Bureau of the General Command Post of the Ministry of Defense.

• The highest you may fly your drone is 492 feet. Take care to set your device to warn you when you are reaching this height limit.

• You may not use a drone that weighs over 26 pounds. Anything 26 pounds and under should be fine with the permit.

• You can fly your drone during the daytime hours, but evening and nighttime are restricted. You are unlikely to get permission for a nighttime drone flight, so it’s best to plan your itinerary for sunlight hours only.

• Hazardous materials cannot be attached to your drone or launched from it. Also, you may not fly attached flags or other propaganda items from your drone.

• As in many countries, certain areas, such as military bases, are prohibited. You will want to request a map of locations where you cannot fly your drone so you can safely avoid these places.

• Double-check with your airline to make sure your drone will be permitted on the flight. This is an important step that you don’t want to overlook! Some airlines have frequently changing rules about items you can safely store in cargo.

• As always, drone safety and etiquette around the world require that you respect others’ privacy. This is true anywhere you fly, whether it’s your home neighborhood or Vietnam.

» MORE: Airline Drone Policy (Read This Before You Travel)

Applying for a permit to fly a drone in Vietnam

This is undoubtedly the biggest hurdle for drone flyers to jump before they can legally fly in the country. It can’t be avoided, so it’s worth your attention. There is a good reason for this process.

The permit allows the government to keep track of who is permitted to fly a drone, which will keep you out of trouble when you begin your flight. It also helps you receive official support when your trip begins so that you have the most up-to-date rules.

There are two ways to complete the application process that will allow you to fly your drone in Vietnam.

On your own

There is a form that you will need to fill out for the Vietnamese government about your intended drone flight. It will ask you questions about your drone, the plans you have to fly it, and your stay in Vietnam.

When you have completed the form, you will submit it to the Vietnamese Ministry of Defense. This must be completed 14 days in advance of the day you wish to fly your drone, so make sure you check your itinerary carefully.

Be aware that this form is not in English. You will also need a separate form for every flight.

Through an agency

Because the form can be daunting for foreigners, there are local agencies that will assist with the application for a fee.

Though there is an extra cost associated with this, many travelers may find the convenience worth it to get the license approved in a timely manner.

What will I need to provide for my application?

There is a somewhat hefty fee to apply for permission to fly your drone in Vietnam. Depending on whether you apply on your own or through an agency, it can cost anywhere from $350 to $700, so make sure you are paying attention to costs when you make your decision.

You will also need to provide all relevant documentation of your drone.

This includes several items:

• Papers for your drone.

• Your current drone license or other official proof of permission to fly your drone legally.

• A breakdown of the specs for your drone, often including photographs of the device itself.

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Drone Laws in Oklahoma

Drone enthusiasts flock to Oklahoma for sights such as Turner Falls, Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center, Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, and Broken Bow Lake.

Before you launch your drone in these and other places throughout the state, what are the UAV laws here?

Oklahoma has federal and state drone laws but no local laws. Drone pilots must always follow FAA Part 107 rules and avoid facilities deemed critical infrastructure facilities throughout the state.

In this comprehensive guide to Oklahoma’s drone laws, we’ll explain all the pertinent federal and state drone laws at play so you can be a safe drone pilot.

There’s lots of great info to come, so check it out!

Federal Drone Laws in Oklahoma

The United States government institutes federal drone laws for every state across the country, Oklahoma among them.

These federal laws apply to agency, commercial, and recreational drone pilots. Let’s go over the state’s federal drone laws now.

Agency Drone Pilots

Government or agency drone pilots that use drones in Oklahoma for professional purposes must have a Certificate of Authorization or COA or follow the Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 rules.

Agency drone pilots include law enforcement and fire department employees, among others.

Commercial Drone Pilots

Oklahoma federal drone law mandates that commercial drone pilots in the state must also obey Part 107 rules when operating a UAV.

The FAA, in its Part 107 rules, requires commercial pilots to carry a Remote Pilot Certificate when using a drone. This certificate is only attainable by passing the Part 107 exam.

» MORE: FAA Part 107 for Commercial Drone Pilots

If you have yet to take the Part 107 exam, you must be at least 16 years old with a full comprehension of the English language. The FAA must deem you both mentally and physically capable of flying as well.

The Part 107 exam includes more than 50 multiple-choice questions on all areas of the Part 107 rules. You must earn a score of at least 70 percent to pass and obtain your Remote Pilot Certificate.

Since the Part 107 exam requires paid registration each time you want to take it, many aspiring commercial drone pilots want to pass it the first time around.

We have a list of the best expert-led drone courses for your perusal here. We highly recommend registering for at least one course ahead of taking the Part 107 exam, as you can prep for what will be on the exam.

» MORE: Best Drone Courses Taught by Experts

You might have a higher chance of passing!

Once you have your Remote Pilot Certificate, the FAA also requires you to register your drone for $5. For the next three years, you can now fly your commercial drone.

Well, in two years, your Remote Pilot Certificate will expire.

You used to have to take the Part 107 exam all over again to recertify. Now commercial drone pilots can take a free online recertification exam through the FAA instead.

» MORE: Renewal of Your Part 107 Certificate

You have to earn a perfect score on the exam, but that’s not so hard considering you can go back and change any wrong answers before you submit your test. Then your license is recertified for two more years!

Recreational Drone Pilots

Federal drone law in Oklahoma applies to recreational drone pilots aka hobbyists as well.

You’re also expected to always obey Part 107 rules when flying your drone.

According to those rules, hobbyists must register a drone with the FAA (for the same fee) if the drone weighs at least 0.55 pounds.

For drones that are under that weight threshold, you can pass on the registration. These are usually beginner or toy drones.

The terms of your registration last for three years as well.

The FAA requires recreational drone pilots to carry a TRUST license when flying. If you don’t have your TRUST license yet, then you need to sign up to take The Recreational UAS Safety Test or TRUST exam.

This exam is a free-to-take online test that consists of a little over 20 questions. All questions that you answer correctly or incorrectly are displayed as such as you complete the exam.

You have the opportunity to go back and correct your wrong answers if you wish. Then you’ll be issued your TRUST certificate.

This certificate never expires.

State Drone Laws in Oklahoma

Next, let’s look at HB 2559, the sole state-level drone law in Oklahoma.

HB 2559 // 2016

Passed in 2016, HB 2559 is an act that was put into law to ban certain usages of drones in the state of Oklahoma.

Namely, drones are barred from flying “over a critical infrastructure facility” at a height that’s under 400 feet over ground level.

What does HB 2559 count as a critical infrastructure facility?

In Section 1, A., a critical infrastructure facility is defined as “one of the following, if completely enclosed by a fence or other physical barrier that is obviously designed to exclude intruders, or if clearly marked with a sign or signs that are posted on the property, are reasonably likely to come to the attention of intruders, and indicate that entry is forbidden or flight of unmanned aircraft without site authorization is forbidden.”

The following structures constitute critical infrastructure facilities according to HB 2559:

• Alumina or petroleum refineries
• Electrical control centers, switching stations, substations, or power-generating facilities
• Rubber, polymer, or chemical manufacturing facilities
• Water pump stations, wastewater treatment plants, water treatment facilities, or water intake structures
• Natural gas compressor stations
• Liquid natural gas storage facilities or terminals
• Telecommunications central switching offices
• Cell towers and other wireless telecommunications infrastructure
• Freight transportation facilities such as trucking terminals, railroad switching yards, or ports
• Gas processing plants, “including a plant used in the processing, treatment or fractionation of natural gas or natural gas liquids”
• Transmission facilities used by federally licensed television or radio stations
• Steelmaking facilities that have electric arc furnaces for steel production
• “A facility identified and regulated by the United States Department of Homeland Security Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) program”
• Dams that are regulated by the federal or state government
• Natural gas distribution utility facilities such as natural gas storage facilities, regulator stations, aboveground piping, metering stations, town border or city gate stations, and pipeline interconnections
• “Any aboveground portion of an oil, gas, hazardous liquid or chemical pipeline that is enclosed by a fence or other physical barrier that is obviously designed to exclude intruders”

In Section B, the rules for drone usage are clearly laid out as follows:

“A person shall not intentionally or knowingly:

1. Operate an unmanned aircraft over a critical infrastructure facility if the unmanned aircraft is less than four hundred (400) feet above ground level;
2. Allow an unmanned aircraft to make contact with a critical infrastructure facility, including any person or object on the premises of or within the facility; or
3. Allow an unmanned aircraft to come within a distance of a critical infrastructure facility that is close enough to interfere with the operations of or cause a disturbance to the facility.”

The federal government, the state, and the state’s political subdivisions as well as those who are working for the above parties such as law enforcement is exempt, as are critical infrastructure facility operators or owners.

Does Oklahoma Have Any Local Drone Laws?

Local drone laws are instituted and enforced by cities, towns, villages, and counties throughout the state. Not every state has them, and in the case of Oklahoma, that’s true.

However, considering the extensiveness of HB 2559 as well as Oklahoma’s federal drone laws, it’s not like there’s a shortage of drone laws for pilots throughout the state to follow.

Oklahoma Drone Law FAQs

Before we conclude, we have this FAQs section on Oklahoma drone laws as they pertain to public and state parks. This information is handy to have before launching your drone!

Can You Fly a Drone in a Public Park in Oklahoma?

From McKinley Park to Lake Overholser Park, South Lakes Park, Scissortail Park, Earlywine Park, Martin Park Nature Center, and many more, Oklahoma is a state rife with public parks.

Are you allowed to fly your drone commercially or recreationally in these public parks?

There are no state or federal drone laws in Oklahoma prohibiting you from doing so unless the parks are located near a critical infrastructure facility. Then you should avoid the park and try another.

The District Superintendent has the right to revoke access to drone flights in recreational areas at any time.

Can You Fly a Drone in a State Park in Oklahoma?

State parks are usually a must-see destination, and that’s no different in Oklahoma.

Parks such as Robbers Cave State Park, Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center, Lake Thunderbird State Park, Salt Plains State Park, Lake Murray State Park, and Foss State Park attract many visitors per year.

Those visitors could include you, the drone pilot who’s reading this right now. Oklahoma state parks do permit drone pilots to fly.

Do keep in mind that once again, the District Superintendent can revoke UAV access.

Being granted the freedom to fly a drone in a state park is a rare occurrence, so always follow Part 107 rules!

Conclusion

Oklahoma is a state that protects its critical infrastructure facilities from drone pilots. You’re also expected to follow federal drone laws and Part 107 rules.

With no local drone laws and no drones prohibited from state and public parks, you do have plenty of flying freedom in Oklahoma. Always fly responsibly!

References:
HB 2559 (link)

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Drone Laws in Ohio

Ohio lures drone enthusiasts and non-pilots alike with gorgeous sights like the Mohican State Park, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Indian Lake, and the Holden Arboretum.

If you wish to fly your drone here, what laws do you have to know first?

In Ohio, drone laws are enforced on a federal, statewide, and local level. Many cities and towns throughout the state ban the use of drones, and pilots must always follow Part 107 rules.

Ahead, we’ll take a deep dive into all the drone laws in Ohio. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have a much fuller understanding of what’s allowed and what isn’t in this state.

Federal Drone Laws in Ohio

The United States government assigns federal drone laws to each state, Ohio among them. These laws apply to all drone pilots, including government employees as well as commercial and recreational pilots.

Here’s an overview of Ohio’s federal drone laws.

Recreational Drone Pilots

Recreational drone pilots or hobbyists are expected to obey the Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 drone rules when engaging in flight.

Under Part 107 rules, recreational pilots must have a TRUST license to fly. TRUST is short for The Recreational UAS Safety Test.

That test is a 25-question exam that includes all multiple-choice questions. It doesn’t cost a fee to take the TRUST exam, and you can do it online as well.

As you answer the questions on the TRUST exam, if you get any wrong, you’re shown those answers while you’re still taking the test.

You have the option to go back and change your answers if you so wish.

Your TRUST certificate never expires, so always keep it handy.

Be sure to weigh your drone before flying as well. If the UAV clocks in at 0.55 pounds or less, such as is the case for a toy drone, you don’t have to register it.

However, for drones over 0.55 pounds, you do have to register the drone with the FAA for a fee of $5. The registration lasts for the next three years.

Commercial Drone Pilots

Most of you reading this are probably commercial drone pilots, so let’s not waste any time looking at how Ohio federal drone laws affect you.

You too must always fly according to the FAA’s Part 107 rules.

The FAA’s rules mandate that commercial drone pilots hold a Remote Pilot Certificate when operating a drone in a commercial fashion.

If you don’t already have a Remote Pilot Certificate in your name, then that will entail you having to take the Part 107 exam.

This exam for commercial drone pilots must be taken at a testing center on the FAA’s list.

You’ll have to pay a fee to take the exam, and that goes for any recurrent instances of taking the exam as well (such as failing the first time around).

The exam consists of 60 questions, all of them multiple-choice. You’re granted over two hours to complete the test. You don’t get to see if you answer any questions wrong while you take the test.

If you want to strengthen your Part 107 knowledge ahead of your exam date, be sure to check out our reviews of the best expert-level online drone schools here.

Should you earn at least 70 percent, then you’ll be sent your Remote Pilot Certificate in the mail. The license is good for two years.

When it’s about to expire, you can take a free renewal exam through the FAA. This online, multiple-choice quiz requires you to earn a score of 100 percent to pass.

Before you begin panicking, you will see incorrect answers as you take the test, and you will have the opportunity to change those answers.

You’ll also have to register your drone with the FAA every three years for $5 per drone as a commercial pilot.

Agency Drone Pilots

Agency or government drone pilots include Ohio fire departments and police who use drones in a professional capacity.

You must follow Part 107 rules or obtain a Certificate of Authorization or COA.

State Drone Laws in Ohio

Let’s continue with Ohio’s state drone laws, which include HB 292.

HB 292 // 2014

HB 292 established the creation of the Ohio Aerospace and Aviation Technology Committee, which includes three senate members, three house of representative members, and 15 members “representing the aviation, aerospace, or technology industry, the military, or academia.”

Up to 14 of those members are decided by the house of representatives and senate voters, of which six could vote in all. The other member was decided upon by the Ohio governor.

So what does the Ohio Aerospace and Aviation Technology Committee, which went into effect in 2014, do, you ask? Here is the full list of responsibilities.

“(1) Studying and developing comprehensive strategies to promote the aviation, aerospace, and technology industry throughout the state, including through the commercialization of aviation, aerospace, and technology products and ideas;

(2) Encouraging communication and resource-sharing among individuals and organizations involved in the aviation, aerospace, and technology industry, including business, the military, and academia;

(3) Promoting research and development in the aviation, aerospace, and technology industry, including research and development of unmanned aerial vehicles;

(4) Providing assistance related to military base realignment and closure.”

Local Drone Laws in Ohio

Ohio has a smattering of local drone laws, so let’s go over them now.

Lorain County Metro Parks // 2020

In Lorain County Metro Park’s Rules and Regulations, Section 25.0 Aircraft, Balloons, Parachutes, Etc., the rule is as follows.

“No person shall voluntarily bring, land or cause to ascend or descend, or alight upon or adjacent to park lands, any airplane, drone/UAS (unmanned aircraft system), flying machine, balloon, glider, kite, parachute or other apparatus for aviation, without a permit and a payment of a fee, as may be required by the Director.”

Should you be granted permission to fly your drone, you must follow FAA regulations at all times.

Toledo Metro Parks // 2021

Toledo Metro Parks has a similar policy. According to its website, “Flying drones and use of other remote-controlled aircraft and watercraft is prohibited in the Metroparks. Drone use permits are issued for Westwinds Metropark.”

Here is the permit form if you want to send that in.

Hamilton County – Great Parks Rule // 2015

The Great Parks Rule of Hamilton County, passed in 2015, includes drone usage guidelines.

The guidelines say that “Per Great Parks of Hamilton County bylaws, drones may not be flown in any of the parks without written permission from the Chief Executive Officer.”

Once again, you can apply for permits via an application form. The form for recreational pilots is here and the form for commercial pilots is here.

Anderson Township Parks – Park District Rule // 2015

Since 2015, the Park District Rule in Anderson Township Parks, Section 17a – Drones and Other Aircraft, has prohibited drone use.

Here’s the policy in full: “No person shall use or operate any radio controlled aircraft, including drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles, or any other similar device in any park or facility without specific written permission from the Executive Director.”

In Section 19 – Penalties, it’s stated that disobeying the rules laid out in the Park District Rule could lead to a $100 fine for your first offense and a $500 fine for your second and subsequent offense.

Butler County – Metro Parks // 2008

The park rules and regulations for MetroParks in Butler County clearly state that drone flight is disallowed unless a park board designates a specific area for drone flight.

Even still, you’d need an Executive Director-issued special permit.

Cleveland Metro Parks // 2021

In the major city of Cleveland, an ordinance passed in 2021, in Section 745.03 Restrictions, clearly lays out your flight rules. Drones are, unsurprisingly, banned.

Here is the information in Section 745.03 in full.

“(a) No person shall launch, land or operate, or cause to be launched, landed or operated, any UAS weighing 4.4lbs/2.2kgs or greater in any airspace within the Park District.

(b) No person shall launch, land or operate, or cause to be launched, landed or operated, any UAS weighing less than 4.4lbs/2.2kg in any airspace within the Park District except in designated areas and must possess a current certificate of aircraft registration issued by the FAA for the UAS or is flying the UAS strictly for recreational use.

(c) No person shall launch, operate, or cause to be launched or operated, any unmanned aircraft system in any airspace within or over any area within the Park District that the FAA determines to be a restricted area, either by way of a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), Temporary Flight Restriction, No Drone Zone, or other means.”

Agency drone pilots are allowed to fly a drone in the park district though.

Cincinnati Parks – Park Board Rule // 2017

In Cincinnati Parks, the 2017 Park Board Rule prohibits drone flight unless you have a park board member’s written permission to fly.

Some areas of the park may be designated drone flight areas.

City of Celina – Municipal Law // 2015

Celina’s municipal law bars drones from flying over any property owned by the city, and that does indeed include parks.

City of Cleveland – Municipal Law // 2016

Cleveland has another municipal law, this one passed in 2016, that allows city police to enforce FAA regulations on drone pilots. 

Ohio Drone Law FAQs

If you still have a couple of questions about flying a drone in Ohio, this FAQs section should clear everything up.

Can You Fly a Drone in a Public Park in Ohio?

Ohio is a green state with lots of stunning landscapes to explore across a vast number of public parks.

However, if a city or town in Ohio bars the usage of drones per the section prior, then you cannot fly your drone unless you have permission. That usually requires obtaining written permission, as you’ll recall.

Some cities or towns might have designated drone flight areas, but if not, and if you get turned down for a permit, you cannot fly there.

Can You Fly a Drone in a State Park in Ohio?

Ohio is home to some beloved state parks such as Mosquito Lake State Park, East Harbor State Park, Punderson State Park, Geneve State Park, Salt Fork State Park, and many more.

Are you allowed to fly your drone in these and other state parks? Should the parks have designated areas for such an activity or if you’re granted a permit from the appropriate parties, then yes, you can.

Conclusion

Ohio is a state with lots of beautiful attractions to explore. However, plenty of drone rules limit pilots on where they can and cannot go, so it’s a good idea to read up on the rules before you fly!