Minnesota Department of Transportation Policy
Drones used for commercial purposes must be registered with MnDOT. Drone pilots must also secure a commercial license from the state and have insurance on the drone.
Ref Aeronautics and Aviation – Unmanned Aircraft System
Minnesota Statutes 360.13
Provides a working definition of “aircraft” as “any contrivance now known or hereafter invented, used, or designed for navigation of or flight in the air, but excluding parachutes.” The Minnesota Statutes do not make any specific mention of drones or unmanned aerial vehicles.
Minnesota Statutes 360.59
Drone pilots must present proof of insurability upon registration with the state. Insurance coverage requirements must be specific to the aircraft. This applies to all drones that weigh less than 55 pounds and are used for commercial purposes.
Minnesota Statutes 360.60
All commercial drone pilots must register their aircraft with the MnDOT. This is done by accomplishing an Aircraft Registration Application and paying a fee of $100 per year.
Minnesota Statutes 360.75
Classifies as a misdemeanor the following acts, among others:
- Operating an aircraft while in possession of any license or permit, knowing that it has been canceled, revoked, suspended, or altered.
- Operating any aircraft in such a manner as to indicate either a willful or a wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.
- While in flying over a thickly inhabited area or over a public gathering in this state, engaging in trick or acrobatic flying or in any acrobatic feat.
- While in flight in an aircraft, whether as a pilot, passenger, or otherwise, endangers, kills, or attempts to kill any birds or animals or uses any aircraft for the purpose of concentrating, driving, rallying, or stirring up migratory waterfowl.
SF 3258
Knowingly flying a drone over a state correctional facility or over the grounds belonging to or land controlled by the facility is prohibited and considered a misdemeanor without the written consent of the commissioner. Recording images while performing such act is considered a gross misdemeanor.
SF 3072
Allows the use of drones by law enforcement for emergency situations with risk of death or bodily harm, public events with heightened risk to public safety, counter-terrorist operations, traffic crash documentation, public relations, or training.
