As drone technology advances and more people seek to fly drones, drone laws in Alaska have developed alongside federal laws. Both hobbyist and commercial drone operators in Alaska must understand the regulations for flying a drone.
Can You Fly a Drone in Alaska?
Yes, you can fly a drone in Alaska for both commercial and recreational use. However, all drone operators should adhere to federal, state, and local drone laws.
Federal Drone Laws in Alaska
When flying a drone in any state, including Alaska, you must follow federal drone laws set by the FAA.
Commercial Drone Flying in Alaska
To fly a drone for commercial use in Alaska, you must register your drone and obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA.
Recreational Drone Flying in Alaska
Recreational drone flyers in Alaska must follow FAA guidelines including:
- Adhere to the rules for safe operation, including flying under 400 feet.
- Avoid flying in restricted areas, like correctional facilities and airports.
- Pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST)
- Register your drone with the FAA
Government Employee Drone Operation in Alaska
Fire departments, police, and any other government agency in Alaska must adhere to the FAA’s Part 107 rule or obtain a federal Certificate of Authorization (COA) to operate drones.
Note: This content is accurate up to the date it was last updated, and drone regulations in Tennessee can change over time. This is not meant to take the place of legal counsel.
State Drone Laws in Alaska
Alaska State Legislature created state-wide drone laws as well. Law HB 255 // 2014 limits how law enforcement in the state can operate drones, including rules for saving images and video.
Back in 2015, the state’s task force also released Drone / UAS Operator Safety Guidelines and FAQs about Privacy. These guidelines re-iterated information from the FAA guidelines, emphasizing how to avoid privacy and trespassing concerns when operating a drone.
Local Drone Laws in Alaska
In addition to federal and state-wide laws, some local ordinances in Alaska also have their own laws for drone use.
- State Code 33.398 – Salmon Fishing: UVA operators cannot use drones to locate salmon for commercial fishing operations during the open commercial salmon fishing period.
- 5 AAC 92.080 | Hunting: According to this law, drone operators cannot use UAS to find game for hunting.
- 11 AAC 20.020: Developed by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, this law restricts drone use in Chugach State Park. Only authorized aircraft flying in or out of Bold Airport are allowed.
Penalties for Violating Drone Laws in Alaska
Violating drone laws in Alaska can result in serious penalties. Failure to adhere to safety rules and drone operation guidelines may result in criminal and civil penalties, including jail time and fees.
FAQs About Flying a Drone in Alaska
Can I fly a drone in a park in Alaska?
Yes, you can fly your drone in most recreational parks in Alaska. However, there are some parks you cannot operate a drone in including national parks and Chugach State Park.
Can I use a drone for hunting in Alaska?
No, you cannot use a drone to hunt in Alaska. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game prohibits drone use for salmon fishing and other hunting activities.
Is it legal to fly a drone above private property in Alaska?
No, you cannot fly a drone over private property in Alaska without consent from the owner. Doing so may violate trespassing and privacy laws, which can land you in legal trouble.
