Is Drone Legal in Utah? (2026)
It depends. In Utah, drone is restricted. Operating drones in Utah is generally legal but subject to various state and federal regulations, particularly concerning privacy, airspace, and critical infrastructure.. A permit or license is required.
Key facts
- Status
- Restricted
- Permit required
- Yes
- Jurisdiction
- Utah
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Drone laws in Utah
Utah Code Ann. § 76-9-402, titled "Voyeurism," was amended to explicitly address drones. It states that a person is guilty of voyeurism if, for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or to degrade or abuse, they remotely operate an unmanned aircraft to view, photograph, or record a person in a place where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy. This includes areas like a residence, private yard, or other location where a person could reasonably expect to be safe from intrusive observation. Another key aspect is related to critical infrastructure. Utah Code Ann. § 76-6-112 generally prohibits trespassing on critical infrastructure, and while it doesn't explicitly mention drones, flying a drone over critical infrastructure could be interpreted as a form of trespass or interference, particularly if it disrupts operations or poses a security risk. Critical infrastructure includes facilities like power plants, water treatment plants, and communication towers. Violations of these statutes could lead to criminal charges. At the federal level, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) governs drone operations across the United States. All drone operators, whether recreational or commercial, must adhere to FAA regulations, including registering their drones, obtaining appropriate certifications (such as a Part 107 license for commercial operations), and following airspace restrictions. This includes prohibitions on flying near airports, over crowds, or beyond visual line of sight without specific waivers. Utah state laws often complement or build upon these federal regulations. For instance, while the FAA focuses on airspace safety, Utah's laws tend to address privacy concerns and protection of ground-based assets.
Frequently asked questions
Is drone legal in Utah for travelers?
For travelers visiting Utah, drone is currently restricted. Utah Code Ann. § 76-9-402, titled "Voyeurism," was amended to explicitly address drones. It states that a person is guilty of voyeurism if, for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or to degrade or abuse, they remotely operate an unmanned aircraft to view, photograph, or record a person in a place where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy. This includes areas like a residence, private yard, or other location where a person could reasonably expect to be safe from intrusive observation. Another key aspect is related to critical infrastructure. Utah Code Ann. § 76-6-112 generally prohibits trespassing on critical infrastructure, and while it doesn't explicitly mention drones, flying a drone over critical infrastructure could be interpreted as a form of trespass or interference, particularly if it disrupts operations or poses a security risk. Critical infrastructure includes facilities like power plants, water treatment plants, and communication towers. Violations of these statutes could lead to criminal charges. At the federal level, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) governs drone operations across the United States. All drone operators, whether recreational or commercial, must adhere to FAA regulations, including registering their drones, obtaining appropriate certifications (such as a Part 107 license for commercial operations), and following airspace restrictions. This includes prohibitions on flying near airports, over crowds, or beyond visual line of sight without specific waivers. Utah state laws often complement or build upon these federal regulations. For instance, while the FAA focuses on airspace safety, Utah's laws tend to address privacy concerns and protection of ground-based assets.
Do I need a permit for drone in Utah?
Yes, Utah requires a permit or license for drone. Contact the relevant state agency for application details.
Can I transport drone through Utah?
Transport laws for drone in Utah depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for drone violations in Utah?
Penalties for drone violations in Utah vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.