Act 150 of 2026 (House Bill 4679)
- From January 1, 2027, it is a crime to knowingly fly, take off, or land a drone within 1,500 feet horizontally of a correctional or detention facility or a military installation without written consent, in FAA-controlled airspace without FAA authorization, or without the required FAA registration and markings.
- These are misdemeanors: up to $1,000 or 6 months for a first offense, rising to $5,000 and/or 2 years for a third or later offense.
- Using a drone to deliver contraband to a jail or prison, or to surveil a military installation or correctional facility for an unlawful purpose, is a felony punishable by up to $10,000 and/or 5 years. Weaponizing a drone carries up to $25,000 and/or 10 years.
- Police may seize a drone used in a violation. Cities and counties may not pass drone rules that conflict with the act or FAA rules, but may restrict takeoff and landing sites and flights on or over public property.
Ref Act 150 of 2026 (House Bill 4679)
Act 184 Section 24-1-300
Prohibits flying of drones within 500 feet horizontal distance or 250 feet vertical distance from any Department of Corrections facility.
NOTE: Act 150 of 2026 repeals this section on January 1, 2027, and replaces it with a 1,500-foot rule. See Act 150 of 2026 above.
