Los Angeles Drone Laws Uncovered: The Ultimate 2025 Guide for Every Pilot
The FAA has exclusive authority over U.S. airspace, so federal rules govern drones in Los Angeles while local city/county rules govern ground-based restrictions like takeoff/landing sites and permits. Recreational drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds must be registered with the FAA for $5, pass the free TRUST test, fly below 400 feet AGL, stay in visual line of sight, yield to all manned aircraft, and use the B4UFLY app to avoid restricted zones, with civil fines up to $27,500 and criminal fines up to $250,000 in extreme cases. Commercial operations under FAA Part 107 require a Remote Pilot Certificate (minimum