Flying Drones in Newport Beach? Better Follow These Rules

NEWPORT BEACH, CA—The sight of drones flying overhead in Newport Beach isn't new. With the close proximity of John Wayne Airport to the city, specialized drone flying rules and regulations are necessary.

In order to fly your drones safely and within the law, the Newport Beach Police Department offered their suggestions on the proper use of drones in the city.

Because nearly all of the City of Newport Beach geographically is located within five miles of John Wayne Airport, recreational flights of all drones need to be authorized. Operators must contact the John Wayne Airport tower and receive permission prior to flying within the five-mile radius of the airport.

Failure to do so is a violation of FAA regulations. Additional information and resources can be found using the links below:

• The Know Before You Fly organization provides information for recreational and business users of drones.
• The FAA's Model Aircraft page provides guidelines for hobby and recreational use of model aircrafts, including drones.
• Effective 12/21/2015, anyone who owns a small unmanned aircraft (including a drone) must register with the Federal Aviation Administration's Unmanned Aircraft System registry before they fly outdoors. For more details, and to register, see the FAA's Unmanned Aircraft System Registration page.

A web page has been established as a resource for additional information on the regulations and registration of these devices.

Visit: Newport Beach Community Drones Information Page

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