Navigating the skies with a drone in Vermont offers impressive views, from the shores of Lake Champlain to the peaks of the Appalachian Mountains. However, before you launch your drone, it’s crucial to understand the regulations that govern its use.This guide provides an overview of everything you need to know to fly your drone legally and responsibly in Vermont.We’ll cover everything from registration and certification to where you can fly, what penalties you could face for violations, and provide helpful resources to ensure every flight is a successful one.

Federal Drone Laws That Apply in Vermont

All drone pilots operating in the United States, including in Vermont, must adhere to the regulations set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These rules are designed to ensure the safety of the national airspace for everyone. They form the foundation of drone regulation, and state laws are built upon them.

• FAA Registration: Any drone weighing more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) must be registered with the FAA. You can register your drone through the FAA DroneZone website. Registration costs $5 and is valid for three years. Your registration number must be clearly marked on the exterior of your drone.
• Remote ID: As of September 16, 2023, all registered drones are required to broadcast Remote ID information. This acts as a digital license plate for your drone, allowing authorities to identify it in flight. The only exception is if you are flying within an FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA).
• Part 107 for Commercial Pilots: If you are flying your drone for any business-related purpose, you must be certified as a Remote Pilot under the FAA’s Part 107 rules. This requires passing a knowledge test and being at least 16 years old.
• TRUST for Recreational Pilots: Recreational flyers are required to pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). This is a simple online test that covers basic safety guidelines. You must be able to present your completion certificate if asked by law enforcement.
• Altitude and Line of Sight: Drones must be flown at or below 400 feet in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace and must always remain within the pilot’s visual line of sight (VLOS).
• Airspace Authorization: Flying in controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and E) is prohibited without prior authorization. Pilots can obtain authorization through the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system or the FAA DroneZone.

For the most current and detailed information, always consult the official FAA DroneZone and use the B4UFLY app to check airspace restrictions before you fly.

Vermont-Specific Drone Laws

While the FAA governs the skies, the state of Vermont has enacted its own laws to address specific concerns related to drone operations, primarily focusing on privacy, law enforcement use, and safety.

Title 20, Chapter 205: Drones

This chapter of the Vermont Statutes is the primary source of state-level drone regulation. Key provisions include:

• Weaponized Drones Prohibited (13 V.S.A. § 4018): It is illegal to equip a drone with a dangerous or deadly weapon or to fire a projectile from a drone. Violation of this law is a felony. [1]
• Operation Over Private Property (20 V.S.A. § 4626): A person is prohibited from flying a drone for hobby or recreational purposes at an altitude of less than 100 feet above privately owned real property without the owner’s consent. [2]
• Law Enforcement Use of Drones (20 V.S.A. § 4622): This statute places strict limits on how law enforcement can use drones. A warrant is generally required for a law enforcement agency to use a drone for investigation, detection, or prosecution of a crime. There are exceptions for emergencies, search and rescue operations, and with the voluntary consent of the property owner. [3]
• Law Enforcement Reporting (20 V.S.A. § 4624): Any law enforcement agency that uses a drone must report its use to the Department of Public Safety annually. This report is then transmitted to the Legislature, ensuring transparency in how these tools are used by police. [4]

Other Notable Regulations

• Use of Drones for Hunting and Fishing: While not explicitly a statewide statute, the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has regulations that prohibit the use of aircraft, including drones, to harass wildlife or for the purposes of hunting or fishing. Always check with the department for the most current rules.

Local and City Regulations

Currently, Vermont state law does not have a broad preemption clause that would prevent local governments from creating their own drone ordinances. However, very few municipalities in Vermont have enacted drone-specific regulations. This means that in most parts of the state, you only need to worry about federal and state laws.

Despite the lack of widespread local laws, it is always a best practice to check with the local town or city clerk’s office for any specific restrictions before flying, especially in more populated areas or near sensitive locations. Be particularly mindful of local parks, as many have their own rules regarding drone use.

Where You Can and Can’t Fly in Vermont

Knowing where you are allowed to fly is just as important as knowing the rules of the air. Here are some general guidelines for flying in Vermont:

• National Parks: Drones are banned in all National Parks. This is a rule set by the National Park Service (NPS) and applies nationwide.
• Vermont State Parks: The use of drones is prohibited in Vermont State Parks, except with a special use permit issued by the park. This rule is in place to protect wildlife and ensure the enjoyment of all park visitors. You can find more information and apply for a permit through the official Vermont State Parks website.
• Airports and Controlled Airspace: As per FAA rules, you must not fly within 5 miles of an airport without proper authorization (LAANC).
• Military Installations: Avoid flying near any military bases or installations.
• Stadiums and Sporting Events: The FAA prohibits drone flights over stadiums and sporting events. Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are often in place during these events.
• Wilderness Areas: Flying in designated wilderness areas is generally prohibited.

Penalties and Enforcement

Violating drone laws in Vermont can result in significant penalties from both the FAA and state authorities.

• Federal Penalties: The FAA can impose fines ranging from $1,771 to $36,770 per violation for unsafe drone operations. Criminal penalties, including imprisonment, are possible for actions that endanger aircraft.
• State Penalties: Violating Vermont’s law against weaponizing a drone is a felony. Other violations, such as flying too low over private property, can result in civil penalties.

Tips for Staying Compliant

• Check B4UFLY: Always use the B4UFLY app before every flight to check for airspace restrictions.
• Register and Mark Your Drone: Ensure your drone is registered with the FAA and the registration number is visible.
• Get Certified: Complete the TRUST test for recreational flying or obtain your Part 107 certificate for commercial work.
• Respect Privacy: Do not fly over private property without permission, and be mindful of not capturing images or video of people without their consent.
• Check Local Rules: When in doubt, check with local authorities about any specific ordinances.
• Maintain Visual Line of Sight: Keep your drone where you can see it at all times.

Helpful Resources

• FAA DroneZone
• B4UFLY App
• Vermont State Legislature – Drone Statutes
• Drone Launch Academy Part 107 Course