Can I fly my drone over someone’s yard if I’m not filming?

General Drone Discussions
1

I want to know if it’s okay to fly a drone over private property when I’m not filming or taking pictures.

Edit: I’m not filming, but my camera is angled at 45 degrees so I can see where I’m going. I live in Arizona.

2

If you’re in uncontrolled airspace, it should be fine. Just don’t act obnoxious, and you’ll probably avoid problems. If you hover directly over someone’s house, though, they might not appreciate it.

Maybe consider letting them know beforehand?

3

@Wade
Agreed. Legally you’re fine, but always try to be courteous. Building goodwill with others can help avoid any unnecessary conflicts.

4

The FAA controls airspace above ground level, not property owners. If you’re following the rules and not violating any no-fly zones or state laws, you should be okay. Just don’t use the camera in a way that invades someone’s privacy. A quick conversation with them might go a long way.

5

Where you are matters a lot. In the US, flying over private property is generally legal. Just don’t be creepy with the camera. Some states have stricter laws about privacy, though.

6

Flying a drone over private property is legal, even with a camera. Just don’t fly too close to someone’s windows or hang around too long over their yard. Check local laws if you’re unsure.

7

Aircraft fly over private property all the time, and drones aren’t much different. Privacy laws might restrict how you use the camera, so just don’t be invasive. If you’re serious about flying, the FAA’s TRUST course is worth taking. It’s quick and clears up a lot of questions.

8

@Sloane
I already have my TRUST certification. I’m not filming, but my camera is angled at 45 degrees.

9

Zion said:
@Sloane
I already have my TRUST certification. I’m not filming, but my camera is angled at 45 degrees.

The camera angle doesn’t really matter. Plenty of drones have cameras pointing in all directions, depending on how they move. You’re not breaking any rules unless you’re purposely filming someone’s private activities.

10

I fly my drone about a mile out but avoid going into people’s yards. I just enjoy cruising around.

11

As long as you’re in uncontrolled airspace and not filming anything invasive, you’re good. At 50 feet or higher, most people won’t even notice.

12

You’re allowed to fly over private property, but letting the owner know out of respect might prevent any issues. Some people get really annoyed about drones.

13

Check out this case: https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/328/256/.

In short, staying above 200 feet might help you avoid trouble. Courts have ruled that trespassing starts somewhere below that, depending on the situation.

14

@Cruz
That case didn’t establish a minimum height for flying over private property. It’s more about whether the activity causes disturbance or harm. If you fly respectfully, you’ll likely be fine. But yes, staying above 200 feet is a good guideline for avoiding conflicts.

15

@Dru
True, but the decision did highlight the importance of not causing disruptions. Flying at 200 feet or higher is a safe way to avoid disturbing anyone while still following the law.

16

Airspace is controlled by the FAA, not property owners, so you’re fine there. Just double-check local laws to be sure.

17

West said:
Airspace is controlled by the FAA, not property owners, so you’re fine there. Just double-check local laws to be sure.

Right, but just because it’s legal doesn’t mean you should do it without considering others. Don’t act entitled—it helps no one.