Remember: Federal FAA regulations apply in ALL states. The state laws listed below are IN ADDITION to federal requirements. Always check both federal and state rules before flying.
Overview
Pennsylvania restricts drone operations near critical infrastructure and has active drone programs.
FAA Registration
Required (Federal)
Remote ID
Required (Federal)
Last Reviewed
March 4, 2026
Pennsylvania Drone Laws
Cannot fly drones over critical infrastructure including power plants
State parks have varying drone policies by location
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have local drone ordinances
PennDOT active in drone integration for transportation
Privacy Laws
Pennsylvania applies existing wiretapping and surveillance statutes (18 Pa.C.S. Chapter 57) to drone activities.
Penalties
Wiretapping violations: felony. Critical infrastructure: varies by circumstance.
Note: In addition to state penalties, federal FAA penalties may also apply. Civil penalties for FAA violations can reach $27,500, and criminal penalties can include fines up to $250,000 and imprisonment.