Welcome to the ultimate guide to drone laws in Colorado.Colorado’s notable mountains, major cities, and vast open spaces make it a drone pilot’s paradise, but it’s essential to be aware of the federal, state, and local regulations that govern the skies.

Federal Drone Laws That Apply in Colorado

Registration and Remote ID

• FAA Registration: If your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams), you must register it with the FAA. You can do this through the FAA’s DroneZone website. Registration costs $5 and is valid for three years. Your registration number must be visible on the exterior of your drone.
• Remote ID: As of September 16, 2023, most drones required to be registered must also broadcast Remote ID information. This acts as a digital license plate for your drone, allowing the FAA, law enforcement, and other federal agencies to identify drones flying in their airspace.

Rules for Recreational and Commercial Pilots

• Recreational Flyers: If you are flying purely for personal enjoyment, you must take and pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). You must also follow the safety guidelines of an FAA-recognized Community-Based Organization (CBO).
• Part 107 for Commercial Pilots: For any drone flight that is not strictly for recreational purposes, such as for a business or in exchange for payment, you must have a Remote Pilot Certificate, also known as a Part 107 certificate. This requires passing an FAA knowledge test.

General Flight Rules

• Fly at or below 400 feet: In most areas, you are limited to flying no higher than 400 feet above the ground.
• Maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): You must be able to see your drone with your own eyes at all times.
• Airspace Authorization: You must have authorization to fly in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and E). This can be obtained through the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system or the FAA’s DroneZone.
• Respect No-Fly Zones: Never fly your drone in restricted airspace, such as near airports, military bases, or over critical infrastructure.

For more detailed information on federal drone regulations, you can visit the FAA’s DroneZone and use the B4UFLY app to check for airspace restrictions before you fly.

Colorado-Specific Drone Laws

While the FAA has broad authority over the national airspace, states and local governments can also pass laws that affect drone operations. In Colorado, the state legislature has addressed drone use in specific contexts, and it’s important for pilots to be aware of these state-level rules.

Interference with Public Safety Operations

In 2018, Colorado passed HB18-1314, which is now codified as Colorado Revised Statute § 18-9-107. This law makes it a criminal offense to obstruct a peace officer, firefighter, emergency medical service provider, or rescue specialist. The law explicitly includes an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) in its definition of a potential “obstacle.” [1]

This means that if you fly your drone in a way that interferes with emergency responders, you could be charged with a crime. For example, flying a drone over a wildfire could hinder aerial firefighting operations and would be a violation of this law. It is crucial to stay clear of any emergency situations and to give public safety officials the space they need to work.

State and Local Government Authority

In 2026, a bill known as SB26-024 was introduced in the Colorado General Assembly. This bill, titled the “Unmanned Aircraft Systems Rights and Authorities Act,” aimed to create a framework for the regulation of drones at the state and local levels. [2] However, the bill did not pass. While it is not law, its introduction signals that Colorado lawmakers are actively considering how to manage the growing use of drones in the state. This is an area of law that could see further development in the future, so it is important to stay informed about any new legislation that may be proposed.

Local and City Regulations

In addition to state laws, drone pilots in Colorado must also be aware of local ordinances that may be in place in the cities and counties where they are flying. These local rules can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another, so it is always a good idea to check with the local authorities before you fly.

City of Boulder

The City of Boulder has specific regulations regarding drone use. It is prohibited to launch, land, or operate a drone from any City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks land. [3] There are also restrictions on flying near the Boulder Municipal Airport and Folsom Field, especially during sporting events. Before flying in Boulder, be sure to consult the city’s official website for the most up-to-date information.

Other Local Jurisdictions

Many other cities and counties in Colorado may have their own drone ordinances. These can cover a wide range of issues, from where you can fly to the time of day you are allowed to operate your drone. Some common local regulations include:

• Prohibitions on flying in city parks
• Restrictions on flying over private property without permission
• Rules about noise levels

Because there is no single source for all local drone laws in Colorado, it is the pilot’s responsibility to research the rules for the specific area where they plan to fly. A good place to start is the website of the city or county you will be in. You can also try contacting the local parks and recreation department or law enforcement agency.

Where You Can and Can’t Fly in Colorado

Knowing where you are allowed to fly your drone is one of the most important aspects of being a responsible pilot. In Colorado, there are a number of places where drone use is restricted or prohibited.

• National Parks: The National Park Service has banned the use of drones in all national parks, including Rocky Mountain National Park and Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado.
• State Parks and Wildlife Areas: Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) restricts drone use on its lands. It is illegal to take off or land a drone in any of CPW’s more than 350 state wildlife areas. Some state parks may have designated areas for drone flying, but you should always check with the park authorities before you fly.
• Airports and Controlled Airspace: You must have authorization to fly in controlled airspace, which includes the areas around airports. Use the B4UFLY app to check for airspace restrictions.
• Military Installations: Flying drones near military bases is prohibited.
• Stadiums and Sporting Events: The FAA prohibits drone flights over stadiums and sporting events.
• Wilderness Areas: Drone use is not allowed in designated wilderness areas.

Penalties and Enforcement

Violating drone laws in Colorado can result in significant penalties. The FAA can impose fines ranging from $1,771 to $36,770 per violation for unsafe drone operations. In addition, violating Colorado’s law against obstructing public safety operations is a criminal offense that can lead to fines and even jail time. Local governments may also have their own penalties for violating their drone ordinances.

Tips for Staying Compliant

• Check B4UFLY: Always use the B4UFLY app to check for airspace restrictions before every flight.
• Register Your Drone: If your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds, make sure it is registered with the FAA.
• Get Certified: If you are flying for commercial purposes, you must have a Part 107 certificate. For recreational flying, you need to have your TRUST certificate with you.
• Respect Privacy: Do not fly your drone over private property without permission, and be mindful of the privacy of others.
• Check Local Rules: Before you fly, research the local drone ordinances for the city or county you are in.
• Stay in Visual Line of Sight: Keep your drone within your sight at all times.

Helpful Resources

• FAA DroneZone
• B4UFLY App
• Colorado General Assembly
• Drone Launch Academy Part 107 Course

References

[1] HB18-1314 Drone Interference With Public Safety Operations | Colorado General Assembly
[2] SB26-024 State & Local Unmanned Aircraft Regulation | Colorado General Assembly
[3] Drone Use | City of Boulder

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Disclaimer: Drone laws are constantly evolving. While we strive to keep this guide updated, you should always verify local ordinances and check the FAA B4UFLY app before flying. This page is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

Sources: FAA UAS | NCSL State Drone Law Landscape | FAA Remote ID | FAA Part 107