Michigan Drone Laws
Complete guide for commercial and recreational UAS operators
State Overview
Michigan maintains a moderate regulatory posture toward drone operations, with state-level laws addressing privacy, interference with emergency personnel, critical infrastructure protection, hunting interference, and state park operations. The state broadly preempts local drone regulations under MCL 259.301–259.331 (2016 PA 436), with narrow exceptions for local government-owned drones and specific jurisdictions. A significant package of pending legislation (HB 5319–5332) proposes major expansions to critical infrastructure protections, geofencing authorization, drone destruction allowances, and cybersecurity requirements that could substantially shift Michigan's regulatory landscape if enacted.
State Drone Laws
Mich. Admin. Code R. 318.146Unmanned Aircraft Operation Prohibition Without Written Permission
Prohibits the use or operation of an unmanned aircraft without proper written permission in regulated areas under the Mackinac Island State Park Commission general rules.
MCL 259.301 - 259.331 (2016 PA 436)Unmanned Aircraft Systems Regulation — State Preemption and General Prohibitions
Prohibits local governments from regulating UAS except when the regulated drone belongs to the locality. Specifically allows commercial drone operation if the operator is authorized by the FAA, and permits hobby operation in compliance with federal law. Prohibits using a drone to interfere with emergency personnel, to harass an individual, to violate a restraining order, or to capture images invading an individual's reasonable expectation of privacy. Prohibits sex offenders from using a drone to follow, contact, or photograph a person they are prohibited from contacting.
MCL 259.301 - 259.331 (2015 PA 012)Prohibition on Interference with Hunting Using UAS
Prohibits using an unmanned aircraft system to interfere with or harass an individual who is hunting, fishing, or trapping.
DNR Order 5.1 - State Parks and Recreation AreasDrone Operations in State Parks and Recreation Areas
Prohibits: (1) operation of unmanned aircraft that knowingly and intentionally interferes with department employees and their designees performing official duties; (2) operation that interferes with search and rescue operations; (3) flying within 100 yards of a cultural or historical site or structure; (4) flying over occupied beach areas, equestrian facilities, restrooms, open-changing courts, or areas subject to aerial right-of-way; (5) commercial operations without prior written authorization from authorized department representative.
MCL 259.301 - 259.331 (2016 PA 436), Sec. 7UAS Privacy Protection — Invasion of Reasonable Expectation of Privacy
Prohibits using an unmanned aircraft system to capture images, audio, or video that invades an individual's reasonable expectation of privacy. Also prohibits using a drone to surveil or photograph a person in violation of a personal protection order or restraining order.
MCL 259.301 - 259.331 (2016 PA 436), Sec. 8UAS Interference with Emergency Personnel
Prohibits using a drone to interfere with firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, or other emergency personnel in the performance of their official duties.
Local/Municipal Ordinances
West Bloomfield Township
townshipMunicipal Ordinance — Parks No-Fly Zone
Establishes all township parks as no-fly zones for drone operations. This ordinance may be of limited enforceability given the broad state preemption under MCL 259.301–259.331 (2016 PA 436), though park-specific restrictions on public property by local governments occupy a legal gray area.
Restrictions
Drones prohibited in all West Bloomfield parks
Mt. Brighton Ski Resort (Vail Resorts property)
cityVail Resorts Property Policy — Drone Prohibition
Prohibits recreational and commercial drone use on Vail Resorts property except in limited circumstances when an approved operator has obtained FAA exemption and written permission from resort management. Note: This is a private property policy, not a governmental ordinance.
Restrictions
No recreational or commercial drones without FAA exemption and written resort approval. Restricted uses include special events, marketing, and film/photo applications.
Penalty & Fine Schedule
| Violation | Classification | Fine Range | Imprisonment | Enforcement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating UAS without proper written permission in regulated areas (Mich. Admin. Code R. 318.146) | Misdemeanor | Not specified in statute | Not specified in statute | Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Local Law Enforcement | Applies specifically to regulated areas such as Mackinac Island State Park and other DNR-managed lands |
| Interference with emergency personnel or harassment by drone (MCL 259.301–259.331, 2016 PA 436) | Misdemeanor | Not specified in statute | Not specified in statute | Local Law Enforcement | Also applies to privacy invasion, violation of restraining orders, and unlawful contact by sex offenders |
| Interference with hunting, fishing, or trapping using UAS (MCL 259.301–259.331, 2015 PA 012) | Misdemeanor | Not specified in statute | Not specified in statute | Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Local Law Enforcement | Specifically targets harassment of hunters, anglers, and trappers |
| Commercial drone operation in state parks without authorization (DNR Order 5.1) | Regulatory violation | Not specified in statute | Not specified in statute | Michigan Department of Natural Resources | Requires prior written permission from authorized DNR representative for commercial operations |
Operating UAS without proper written permission in regulated areas (Mich. Admin. Code R. 318.146)
Applies specifically to regulated areas such as Mackinac Island State Park and other DNR-managed lands
Interference with emergency personnel or harassment by drone (MCL 259.301–259.331, 2016 PA 436)
Also applies to privacy invasion, violation of restraining orders, and unlawful contact by sex offenders
Interference with hunting, fishing, or trapping using UAS (MCL 259.301–259.331, 2015 PA 012)
Specifically targets harassment of hunters, anglers, and trappers
Commercial drone operation in state parks without authorization (DNR Order 5.1)
Requires prior written permission from authorized DNR representative for commercial operations
Registration Requirements
State Registration
Not Required
State Permit
Not Required
State Insurance
Not Required
Michigan does not impose state-level drone registration requirements. Federal FAA registration applies: drones over 0.55 lbs (250 grams) must be registered with the FAA for $5. This registration must be renewed every three years.
The state does not require permits for recreational flights, but commercial operators must comply with FAA Part 107 certification. Some local jurisdictions and state properties (including state parks and DNR-managed lands) require prior written approval before flight.
No state-level insurance requirement, though specific commercial applications or event-based operations may require coverage by contract or venue policy.
Applicable Federal Regulations
FAA Part 107 Commercial Certification
All commercial drone operators in Michigan must be certified under FAA Part 107.
Commercial drone operators in Michigan are required to pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test and obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate. This is enforced statewide and supersedes any state-level commercial licensing requirements. Michigan's MCL 259.301–259.331 explicitly allows commercial operations if the operator holds FAA authorization, making federal certification the gateway to lawful commercial flight.
Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST)
Hobbyist drone pilots in Michigan must complete the Recreational UAS Safety Test before operating.
All recreational drone operators in Michigan must pass the TRUST before operating. This is a federal requirement that applies to all recreational flights nationwide and is not independently mandated at the state level.
Federal Drone Registration
Drones over 0.55 lbs must be registered with the FAA.
Any drone over 250 grams (0.55 lbs) must be registered with the FAA for $5, renewed every three years. This applies to both recreational and commercial operators and is a nationwide requirement. Michigan imposes no parallel state registration requirement.
Remote ID Compliance
Remote ID technology must be integrated on drones; non-compliance can result in certificate suspension.
The FAA's Remote ID rule requires drones to broadcast identification and location data. Michigan operators must ensure their drones comply. The FAA announced in late 2025 that it will suspend operator certificates for non-compliant operators. This federal rule interacts with the pending Michigan HB 5330, which would add state-level cybersecurity requirements on top of federal Remote ID mandates.
Certificate of Authorization (COA)
Government agencies may operate under COA instead of Part 107.
Michigan law enforcement, fire departments, and other government agencies may use federal Certificates of Authorization for drone operations instead of obtaining individual Part 107 certifications. This is relevant given pending bills HB 5328 and HB 5332 that would impose additional state-level restrictions on government drone procurement and use.
FAA Preemption of Airspace Regulation
The FAA has exclusive authority over navigable airspace, which creates tension with state drone laws.
Several pending Michigan bills (HB 5325, 5326, 5327) that would authorize destruction of drones would almost certainly conflict with federal law, as the FAA considers drones aircraft and unauthorized interference with aircraft — including shooting them down — may violate federal statutes (18 U.S.C. § 32). These bills represent a potential significant federal conflict if enacted.
For complete federal regulations, see our Federal Regulations page.
Airspace & LAANC
LAANC Coverage
LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) is available at major Michigan airports including Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), and others. Operators should check the FAA's UAS Facility Maps for current LAANC coverage before flying near controlled airspace.
Major Airports
DTW — Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County AirportGRR — Gerald R. Ford International Airport (Grand Rapids)LAN — Capital Region International Airport (Lansing)FNT — Bishop International Airport (Flint)MBS — MBS International Airport (Saginaw)AZO — Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International AirportTVC — Cherry Capital Airport (Traverse City)
TFR Notice
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are common around major sporting events including Michigan Wolverines football games at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor (capacity 107,601 — largest stadium in the US) and Michigan State Spartans games at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. TFRs also apply near federal facilities and during presidential or VIP movements. Always check NOTAMs and the FAA B4UFLY app before flying.
Recent Enforcement Actions & News
Federal agencies boost drone violation penalties after detection over Fort McNair
enforcementFederal agencies increased enforcement actions and penalty amounts for drone violations detected near sensitive government facilities, with implications for operators nationwide including in Michigan.
US agencies step up enforcement actions on rogue drones
enforcementFederal agencies announced increased enforcement actions against unauthorized and rogue drone operations nationwide, with Michigan operators advised to verify compliance with all FAA requirements.
FAA stepping up drone restriction enforcement ahead of Super Bowl
enforcementFAA and law enforcement agencies announced enhanced enforcement of airspace restrictions around Super Bowl venue, demonstrating the agency's willingness to enforce TFRs around major events — a pattern directly applicable to Michigan's large stadium events.
FAA details actions against drone operators for unsafe and unauthorised operations
enforcementFAA published details of enforcement actions taken against drone operators for violations of federal regulations including Remote ID non-compliance and unauthorized airspace operations.
US drone operators face suspension if not compliant with FAA Remote ID requirement
regulatory changeFAA announced it will suspend operator certificates for those not complying with the Remote ID mandate, putting Michigan commercial and recreational operators on notice to verify their equipment meets broadcast requirements.
Pending Legislation
HB 5319Referred To Second ReadingAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; flying over or trespassing on a key facility or critical infrastructure with an unmanned aircraft or vehicle; prohibit.
Would prohibit flying unmanned aircraft systems over key facilities or critical infrastructure. Amends MCL 750.45a to add drone-specific trespass offenses related to critical infrastructure.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5320Referred To Second ReadingCriminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for flying over or trespassing on a key facility or critical infrastructure with an unmanned aircraft or vehicle; provide for.
Would establish sentencing guidelines for the crime of flying or trespassing on critical infrastructure with a drone. Companion bill to HB 5319.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5321Referred To Second ReadingAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; database of restricted zones and flight paths for unmanned vehicles; create and provide penalties for using unmanned vehicles in a restricted zone or flight path.
Would create a statewide database of restricted drone zones and flight paths, and provide penalties for operating drones in those areas without authorization. Raises potential FAA preemption concerns as airspace management is a federal function.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5322Referred To Second ReadingCriminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for using an unmanned vehicle in a restricted zone or flight path; provide for.
Would establish sentencing guidelines for violations of restricted drone zones or flight paths. Companion bill to HB 5321 and HB 5330.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5323Referred To Second ReadingAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; installation of geofencing around critical infrastructure or buildings; allow.
Would authorize installation of geofencing technology around critical infrastructure and buildings to prevent unauthorized drone access. Geofencing implementation would need to align with FAA airspace management authority.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5324Referred To Second ReadingAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; adoption of an official no drone zone sign for use in this state; provide for.
Would adopt an official state-sanctioned no-drone zone sign that property owners and municipalities can use to clearly mark areas where drone flights are prohibited.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5325Referred To Second ReadingAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; destruction of drones flying in violation of critical infrastructure guidelines; allow.
Would allow destruction of drones operating illegally near critical infrastructure without liability for property damage to the drone. This provision almost certainly conflicts with federal law — the FAA considers drones to be aircraft and shooting down or destroying an aircraft may violate 18 U.S.C. § 32.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5326Referred To Second ReadingAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; destruction of drones flying in violation of Federal Aviation Administration guidelines; allow.
Would allow destruction of drones operating in violation of FAA guidelines without liability for property damage to the drone. Like HB 5325, this provision raises serious federal preemption and criminal law conflict concerns under 18 U.S.C. § 32.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5327Referred To Second ReadingCrimes: trespassing; downing of a trespassing drone; allow.
Would allow property owners to down (destroy) drones that are trespassing on their property without liability for damage to the drone. Faces significant federal preemption concerns as the FAA has explicitly stated that shooting down drones is illegal under federal aviation law regardless of state authorization.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5328Referred To Second ReadingAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; drones used by state government; require to follow the federal restricted drone list.
Would require all drones used by Michigan state government agencies to comply with the federal restricted drone list, addressing national security concerns about drones manufactured by entities in adversary nations.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5329Referred To Second ReadingState management: funds; use of state funds for purchase of certain drones; prohibit.
Would prohibit state agencies from using state funds to purchase certain types of drones, likely those on the federal restricted list (e.g., DJI and other Chinese-manufactured drones). Companion to HB 5330.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5330Referred To Second ReadingAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; cybersecurity and data protection requirements for drones; provide for.
Would establish cybersecurity and data protection requirements for drones used in Michigan to prevent unauthorized data collection and transmission. Interacts with federal Remote ID requirements.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5331Referred To Second ReadingState management: funds; use of state funds for purchase of certain drones; prohibit.
Would prohibit state agencies from using state funds to purchase certain types of drones without proper authorization or security review. Companion to HB 5329.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 5332Recommendation Concurred InLaw enforcement: funds; purchase or use of certain drones by public agencies; prohibit.
Would prohibit law enforcement and public agencies from purchasing or using certain types of drones deemed to pose cybersecurity or national security risks. Most advanced in the HB 5319–5332 package — has received a committee recommendation.
Last action: March 10, 2026
HB 4834Recommendation Concurred InAeronautics: other; aeronautics code; revise.
Comprehensive revision of Michigan's aeronautics code including amendments to various sections and addition of new provisions. Companion to HB 4835. If enacted, this could be the most substantive structural change to Michigan aviation law in years.
Last action: September 30, 2025
SB 0210Referred To Committee On Civil Rights, Judiciary, And Public SafetyAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; operating unmanned aircraft system near critical infrastructure; prohibit.
Would prohibit operating unmanned aircraft systems near critical infrastructure facilities. Senate companion to the critical infrastructure provisions in the HB 5319–5320 package.
Last action: April 16, 2025
SB 0525Referred To Committee On Transportation And InfrastructureAeronautics: unmanned aircraft systems; exceptions to prohibited use of an unmanned aircraft system; expand.
Would expand exceptions to prohibited uses of unmanned aircraft systems, allowing for additional authorized uses in specific circumstances. This bill moves in the opposite direction from the HB 5319–5332 package, potentially expanding permissible drone operations.
Last action: March 11, 2026
University & College Drone Policies
| Institution | Policy Summary | Permit Required | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan | U-M requires all drone operations on campus property to be approved through the Office of Campus Safety and Security. The university strictly enforces Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) over Michigan Stadium (the largest stadium in the United States by seating capacity at 107,601) during game days and special events. Research drone operations may require separate approval through relevant research compliance offices. Restrictions: All drone operations require prior written approval from the Office of Campus Safety and Security. Michigan Stadium has strict TFR enforcement during football games and events (FAA-issued TFR typically extends 3 nautical miles). No flights over the medical campus without specific authorization. Commercial filming requires additional coordination. | Yes | Office of Campus Safety and Security |
| Michigan State University | MSU requires all drone flights on campus to be approved through the Office of Regulatory Affairs and MSU Campus Police. Spartan Stadium and the surrounding campus area maintain FAA-issued TFRs during athletic events and special occasions. MSU has a formal UAS policy covering research, academic, and administrative drone use. Restrictions: Office of Regulatory Affairs approval required for all flights on campus property. Spartan Stadium TFR strictly enforced during events. No flights over campus buildings without prior authorization. Research UAS operations require compliance review. | Yes | Office of Regulatory Affairs / MSU Police Department |
| Western Michigan University | WMU has established a UAS policy requiring approval for all drone operations on university property. The university's College of Aviation has specific protocols for research and academic drone use that align with FAA Part 107 requirements. Restrictions: Prior approval required for all drone operations on university property. Operations must comply with FAA Part 107 or recreational rules as applicable. No operations over crowds or events without specific authorization. | Yes | WMU Department of Public Safety |
| Grand Valley State University | GVSU requires advance approval for drone operations on campus property. Operators must be licensed under FAA Part 107 for non-recreational use and must submit a flight plan for review prior to any operation. Restrictions: Advance approval required. FAA Part 107 certification required for non-recreational operations. No flights over populated campus areas without specific authorization. | Yes | GVSU Department of Public Safety |
Last Updated
This page is automatically verified and updated weekly by our AI-powered legal research agent (v1.0.1). While we strive for accuracy, always verify critical information with official state sources.
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