Drones

Drones in Carson City

Carson City welcomes safe and responsible drone (unmanned aircraft systems or UAS) operations when conducted in full compliance with federal, state, and local laws. This page provides a basic overview of important regulations. Regulations can change, so always consult the FAA and official Nevada statutes for the most current and complete information.

Federal Regulations Overview (FAA)

Drone operations in the United States are governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

  • Part 107 Operations (commercial, business, or compensated flights): Operators must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, register drones weighing 0.55 lbs (250 grams) or more, and follow rules such as flying below 400 feet, maintaining visual line of sight, and not interfering with manned aircraft. Additional authorizations may be needed for controlled airspace, night operations, or flying over people.
  • Recreational Use (hobby or personal flights): Operators must complete the free TRUST safety test and carry proof. Drones weighing 0.55 lbs or more must be registered with the FAA. The same basic safety rules apply.

All operators must comply with Remote ID requirements and check for airspace restrictions using tools like the FAA’s B4UFLY app.

Nevada State Requirements (NRS 493.109)

Nevada law adds important restrictions beyond federal rules. Under NRS 493.109, a person shall not operate a drone:

  • Within a horizontal distance of 500 feet or a vertical distance of 250 feet from a critical facility without the written consent of the facility owner.
  • Within 5 miles of an airport (including Carson City Airport) without consent from the airport authority/operator or applicable FAA waiver/authorization.
  • A part 107 or recreational certificate is not a weaiver/authorization

Violations are a misdemeanor. Authorized operators must carry documentation of any required consents or waivers during flight.

Critical facilities in Nevada include (but are not limited to):

  • Petroleum refineries, chemical production/storage/processing facilities, and pipelines.
  • Water treatment facilities and wastewater treatment facilities.
  • Mines (as defined in NRS 512.006).
  • Power generating stations, plants, substations, and certain transmission lines (including those owned or operated by electric utilities or the Colorado River Commission of Nevada).
  • County, city, or town jails/detention facilities, prisons, and Department of Corrections institutions.

In the Carson City area, this may include local water/wastewater treatment plants, power infrastructure, detention facilities, or qualifying mines and utility sites. Operators are responsible for identifying whether a location qualifies as a critical facility and obtaining written consent from its owner if required. The full definition and list appear in NRS 493.109.

Authorization from Carson City Airport

Carson City Airport (KCXP) is an uncontrolled airport. Drone operations within 5 miles of the airport require consent from the airport authority in addition to any FAA requirements.

  • Submit a written request by email to the airport at least 3 business days prior to the proposed operation.
  • Airport approval satisfies only the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) requirement for proximity to the airport. It does not override or replace any FAA authorizations, waivers, Part 107 requirements, recreational rules, permissions from critical facility owners, or other necessary approvals.

Required information to include in your written request:

  • Date(s) and time(s) of the proposed operation (including duration).
  • Location/coordinates of the flight (latitude/longitude or detailed description).
  • Drone make, model, and registration number (if applicable).
  • Maximum planned altitude and general flight path description.
  • Purpose of the flight (recreational, commercial/Part 107, etc.).
  • Remote pilot certificate number (if Part 107) or confirmation of TRUST test completion.
  • Operator contact information (name, mobile phone number, email).

Submit requests to: manager@flycarsoncity.com

Additional Important Notes

  • Drone flights must never interfere with manned aircraft, airport operations, or public safety.
  • Always obtain permission from private property owners when flying over private land.
  • Local ordinances or temporary restrictions may also apply.
  • This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Drone operators are fully responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

For airport-specific authorization questions, email manager@flycarsoncity.com.