Drone Laws
in Hawaii (2023)

Welcome to this wiki. The goal of this wiki is to crowd-source drone information. Having said that, information may be inaccurate, out-of-date, and should not be relied upon for legal advice.

Federal Drone Laws

The Federal Aviation Administration controls where you can fly your drone
and under what conditions throughout the United States. You should become familar with the FAA's rules before flying.

Check FAA Drone Laws

Hawaii Drone Pilot Facebook Group

Join fellow Hawaii drone lovers
in our Facebook Group. Share
tips and network.

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Hawaii State Drone Laws
These laws apply in the entire state.

Hawaii State Park Rules

Prohibits the use, launching, or landing of drones or other aircraft within State Parks.

Ref Hawaii State Park Rules

 

Senate Bill 661 (2015)

Establishes a Hawaii unmanned aerial systems test site chief operating officer position to serve on the Pan-Pacific Unmanned Aerial Systems Test Range Complex management team.

Ref Senate Bill 661 (2015)

 

Senate Bill 2065 (2022)

Prohibits the possession or use of unmanned aerial vehicles on, in, or near state marine waters with the purpose of taking aquatic life. Exceptions can apply upon granting of a permit from the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Senate Bill 2065 (2022)

City and County
Drone Laws
These laws apply in some areas.

Local drone laws in Hawaii refer to policies and regulations that are enacted and enforced at the county, city, or town levels.

 

Papahanaumokuakea National Marine Sanctuary

The Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument has been designated as a National Marine Sanctuary (NMS). Papahanaumokuakea NMS covers many of the Hawaiian Islands to the west and north from Ni’ihau and Kaua’i and includes both the land and water.

The FAA’s recommended best operating practice is to fly at least 2000 feet above the ground over all NMS, wildlife refuges, and other noise-sensitive environments. This is effectively far beyond the allowed altitude for drone flight.

Ref National Marine Sanctuaries Overflight Regulations

Ref National Marine Sanctuary Designation

Where to fly
drones in Hawaii

Best-Places-to-Fly-Your-Drone-in-Honolulu

Best Places
to Fly in Honolulu

Best-Places-to-Fly-Your-Drone-in-Maui

Best Places
to Fly in Maui

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