Michigan Drone Laws (2026): State Rules, Local Ordinances & FAA
Complete guide for commercial and recreational UAS operators
State Overview
Michigan maintains a permissive stance toward drone operations through strong preemption that prevents local drone regulation. The state has enacted targeted statutes addressing harassment, privacy invasion, wildlife interference, emergency responder obstruction, and critical infrastructure protection, but does not impose broad flight restrictions beyond federal FAA requirements. Conduct-based prohibitions and location-specific restrictions apply statewide.
State Drone Laws
MCL § 259.301 et seq., Public Act 436 of 2016Michigan Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act
Creates statewide preemption preventing local governments from regulating UAS ownership or operation. Establishes conduct-based prohibitions including harassment, stalking, restraining order violations, surveillance of private places, sex offender restrictions, and interference with emergency response operations.
MCL § 259.305Preemption of Local UAS Regulation
Political subdivisions (cities, villages, townships, counties) cannot enact or enforce ordinances regulating UAS ownership or operation. Narrow exceptions allow local governments to regulate their own UAS fleet and locally owned airports.
MCL § 259.321Interference with Emergency Response Officials
Prohibits knowingly and intentionally operating a UAS in a manner that interferes with the official duties of police officers, firefighters, search-and-rescue personnel, or other first responders.
MCL § 259.322Harassment, Stalking, Restraining Order Violations, and Sex Offender Restrictions
Prohibits: (1) Operating a UAS to subject a person to harassment or stalking under MCL § 750.411h or § 750.411i; (2) Violating terms of a personal protection order with UAS operation; (3) Capturing photographs, video, or audio of another person in a manner that would cause reasonable emotional distress; (4) Sex offenders using UAS to follow, contact, or capture images of persons they are prohibited from contacting.
MCL § 750.539jSurveillance of a Private Place
Prohibits surveilling, photographing, or filming an individual in a private place (where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy) without consent. Applies to drone operations over fenced yards, bedroom windows, and other locations where privacy is reasonably expected.
MCL § 750.539cTwo-Party Consent for Audio Recording
Michigan is a two-party consent state for recording oral communications. Prohibits recording any conversation without the consent of all parties. Applies to drones carrying audio recording equipment that capture private conversations.
MCL § 324.40111c, Public Act 12 of 2015 (Senate Bill 54)Unlawful Use of UAS to Assist in Taking or Harassing Wildlife
Prohibits using a UAS to assist in the taking of any animal, to locate game for hunters, to harass wildlife, or to interfere with lawful hunting or fishing activities. Narrow exception allows recovering a downed, lawfully taken deer, elk, or bear if no one in the party is actively hunting at the time of recovery.
MCL § 750.45aInterference with Critical and Correctional Facilities via UAS
Prohibits interfering with critical infrastructure or correctional facilities via UAS. Covers power plants, water treatment facilities, refineries, and other key infrastructure as well as correctional and detention facilities. Applies to drone overflight and trespass on critical facilities.
DNR Order 5.1, State Parks and Recreation AreasDNR Unmanned Aircraft Restrictions on State-Managed Lands
Prohibits UAS operation within 100 yards of cultural or historical sites/structures; prohibits flying over occupied beaches, campgrounds, equestrian facilities, restrooms, or open changing areas on state-managed property. Prohibits interference with DNR staff. Commercial filming requires prior written permission and liability insurance. Applies to Belle Isle, Ludington, Tahquamenon Falls, Porcupine Mountains, Warren Dunes, Holland State Park, and other DNR-managed areas.
Mich. Admin. Code R. 318.146Mackinac Island State Park Commission UAS Permit Requirement
Prohibits the use or operation of an unmanned aircraft without proper written permission from the Mackinac Island State Park Commission. Applies to all MSHP-administered sites including Mackinac Island State Park, Fort Mackinac, Colonial Michilimackinac, and Historic Mill Creek.
Local/Municipal Ordinances
Town of West Bloomfield
townshipWest Bloomfield Parks Drone Ban
All town parks managed by West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Commission are designated as no-fly zones for drone operations.
Restrictions
Complete prohibition on drone operation in West Bloomfield municipal parks
Penalty & Fine Schedule
| Violation | Classification | Fine Range | Imprisonment | Enforcement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harassment, stalking, or PPO violation via UAS (MCL § 259.322(1)-(3)) | Misdemeanor | Up to $500 | Up to 90 days | County Prosecutor / Michigan State Police | Sentencing judges may impose probation and no-contact conditions |
| Registered sex offender operating UAS against a minor (MCL § 259.322(4)) | Misdemeanor | Up to $500 | Up to 90 days | County Prosecutor / Michigan State Police | |
| Interference with emergency responder duties (MCL § 259.321) | Misdemeanor | Up to $500 | Up to 90 days | County Prosecutor / Michigan State Police | First responder agencies may also pursue civil remedies |
| Surveillance of a private place (MCL § 750.539j) | Misdemeanor (first offense); Felony (second+) | Up to $2,000 (1st); Up to $5,000 (2nd+) | Up to 2 years (1st); Up to 5 years (2nd+) | County Prosecutor / Law Enforcement | Civil liability for damages also possible |
| Non-consensual audio recording (MCL § 750.539c) | Felony | Up to $2,000 | Up to 2 years | County Prosecutor | Two-party consent state; applies to drone-mounted microphones |
| Using UAS to aid in hunting or fishing, or to harass hunters/anglers (MCL § 324.40111c) | Misdemeanor | $500 to $1,000 (1st); $1,000 to $2,500 (2nd+) | 90 days (1st); Up to 1 year (2nd+) | DNR Conservation Officers / County Prosecutor | Hunting/fishing license revocation possible for repeat violations; report to 1-800-292-7800 |
| Interference with critical or correctional facilities via UAS (MCL § 750.45a) | Felony | Up to $2,500 | Up to 4 years | County Prosecutor / Michigan State Police / Federal Authorities | Serious felony with significant prison exposure |
| Stadium TFR violation during events (14 CFR § 99.7) | Federal civil or criminal violation | Five-figure civil penalties typical | Possible federal criminal charges | FAA / Federal Prosecutors | Michigan Stadium (107,601 capacity) is an enforcement priority on game days |
Harassment, stalking, or PPO violation via UAS (MCL § 259.322(1)-(3))
Sentencing judges may impose probation and no-contact conditions
Registered sex offender operating UAS against a minor (MCL § 259.322(4))
Interference with emergency responder duties (MCL § 259.321)
First responder agencies may also pursue civil remedies
Surveillance of a private place (MCL § 750.539j)
Civil liability for damages also possible
Non-consensual audio recording (MCL § 750.539c)
Two-party consent state; applies to drone-mounted microphones
Using UAS to aid in hunting or fishing, or to harass hunters/anglers (MCL § 324.40111c)
Hunting/fishing license revocation possible for repeat violations; report to 1-800-292-7800
Interference with critical or correctional facilities via UAS (MCL § 750.45a)
Serious felony with significant prison exposure
Stadium TFR violation during events (14 CFR § 99.7)
Michigan Stadium (107,601 capacity) is an enforcement priority on game days
Registration, Fees & Taxes
No additional state registration or fees in Michigan
Only standard federal FAA registration applies. No state registration, licensing, or drone-specific fees on record.
State Registration
Not Required
State Permit
Not Required
State Insurance
Not Required
Commercial License
Not Required
Sales Tax on Drones
Does Not Apply
Michigan does not require state-level drone registration, licensing, or business permits beyond federal FAA requirements. Commercial operators need FAA Part 107 certification and federal drone registration ($5 per drone for 3 years). Recreational operators need to pass the free TRUST test and register drones over 0.55 lbs with the FAA. Normal Michigan business tax obligations apply to commercial drone operators.
DNR commercial filming permit required only for commercial drone operations on state-managed DNR lands (state parks, forests, game areas). Standard recreational flying on private land with permission requires no permit.
Not required by state law. Recommended for commercial operations; DNR requires proof of liability insurance for commercial filming on state lands.
Applicable Federal Regulations
Remote ID Compliance
Remote ID mandatory since March 16, 2024
All drones flown outdoors must broadcast identification, location, and altitude via Remote ID technology, unless operating inside an FAA-Recognized Identification Area (FRIA). Michigan has several FRIAs listed on the FAA website.
Part 107 Commercial Certification
Required for any commercial UAS operation
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required for all paid drone work. Covers airspace knowledge, safety, and regulations. Multiple testing centers available in Michigan (Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor, Traverse City, Marquette).
LAANC Authorization
Required for flights in controlled airspace
Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) coordination required for flights under 400 feet in Class B, C, D airspace. Near real-time authorization available through FAA-approved UAS Service Suppliers.
National Park Service Drone Ban
NPS Policy Memorandum 14-05 / 36 CFR § 1.5
Drone launch, landing, and operation prohibited on all National Park Service lands. Applies to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Isle Royale National Park, and Keweenaw National Historical Park in Michigan.
Piping Plover Nesting Protection
Endangered Species Act restricted flight zones
Lake Michigan shorelines subject to Piping Plover nesting closures late April through mid-August. Disturbing plover nests is a federal 'take' violation under the Endangered Species Act.
For complete federal regulations, see our Federal Regulations page.
Federal Preemption & Critical Infrastructure
Mich. Comp. Laws § 259.322 (Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act) — Operation of UAS — interference with key facility, correctional facility, or law enforcement facility prohibited
Penalty: Misdemeanor (penalty under § 259.323); § 259.320 also criminalizes any drone-assisted commission of an underlying crime
FAA authorization carve-out: Yes
Covered categories
The 'key facility' list is incorporated by cross-reference to MCL 750.552c rather than enumerated in the UAS Act itself; check both sections when assessing coverage.
Airspace & LAANC
LAANC Coverage
LAANC authorization required for flights in Class B, C, D, and surface Class E airspace. Available at 726 airports nationwide. Michigan has LAANC coverage at major airports including Detroit Metro (DTW), Grand Rapids (GRR), Lansing (LAN), Flint (FNT), Traverse City (TVC), and others. Most flights in Michigan's urban and suburban areas require LAANC approval.
Major Airports
DTW — Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (Class B)GRR — Gerald R. Ford International Airport / Grand Rapids (Class C)LAN — Capital Region International Airport / Lansing (Class C)FNT — Flint Bishop International Airport (Class D)TVC — Cherry Capital Airport / Traverse City (Class D)AZO — Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (Class D)
TFR Notice
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) apply around Michigan Stadium (largest US stadium, 107,601 capacity) during athletic events within 3 nautical miles (14 CFR § 99.7). Similar TFRs apply for Ford Field, Comerica Park, Little Caesars Arena, and other major sports venues. Always check B4UFLY before every flight.
Recent Enforcement Actions & News
No recent enforcement actions or news on record.
Pending Legislation
HB 5319Placed on Third ReadingFlying over or trespassing on key facility or critical infrastructure with UAS
Amends MCL 750.45a to specifically codify UAS overflight and trespass prohibitions on critical infrastructure and key facilities. Companion bills establish sentencing guidelines and allow destruction of UAS violating this restriction.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5320Placed on Third ReadingSentencing guidelines for critical infrastructure UAS violations
Establishes criminal sentencing guidelines for UAS violations of critical infrastructure restrictions under amended MCL 750.45a. Tied to HB 5319.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5321Placed on Third ReadingDatabase of restricted zones and flight paths for UAS; penalties for violations
Creates a new act establishing a database of restricted UAS zones and flight paths. Provides penalties for operating UAS in restricted zones or flight paths without authorization.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5322Placed on Third ReadingSentencing guidelines for UAS violations of restricted zones
Establishes criminal sentencing guidelines for operating UAS in restricted zones or flight paths in violation of the database established by HB 5321. Tied to HB 5321.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5323Placed on Third ReadingGeofencing technology for critical infrastructure and buildings
Allows installation of geofencing technology around critical infrastructure and buildings to automatically restrict UAS operations. Amends MCL 18.1101 et seq.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5324Placed on Third ReadingOfficial no-drone-zone sign standards
Establishes adoption of an official 'no drone zone' sign for use throughout Michigan. Would provide standardized signage for marking restricted UAS areas.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5325Placed on Third ReadingDestruction of drones flying in violation of critical infrastructure guidelines
Allows law enforcement and authorized personnel to destroy UAS that are flying in violation of critical infrastructure restrictions. Provides legal protection for destruction of trespassing UAS.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5326Placed on Third ReadingDestruction of drones flying in violation of FAA guidelines
Allows law enforcement and authorized personnel to destroy UAS that are flying in violation of FAA guidelines. Provides legal framework for drone takedown operations.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5327Placed on Third ReadingDowning of a trespassing drone
Amends MCL 259.322 to allow property owners and others to down UAS that are trespassing on their property or violating other restrictions. Clarifies self-help remedies for drone trespass.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5328Placed on Third ReadingState government drones must follow federal restricted drone list
Requires Michigan state government agencies to comply with the federal restricted drone list when procuring UAS for state use. Addresses national security concerns.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5329Passed House; Referred to Appropriations CommitteeProhibition on state funds for purchase of certain drones
Prohibits use of Michigan state funds for the purchase of drones from manufacturers on the federal restricted drone list. Tied to HB 5330.
Last action: May 19, 2026
HB 5330Placed on Third ReadingCybersecurity and data protection requirements for drones
Establishes cybersecurity and data protection requirements for UAS operations in Michigan. Addresses concerns about data collection and drone security. Tied to HB 5329 and HB 5332.
Last action: May 12, 2026
HB 5331Passed House; Referred to Appropriations CommitteeProhibition on state funds for purchase of certain drones (funds management)
Parallel to HB 5329; prohibits use of state funds for purchase of drones from manufacturers of concern. Addresses state procurement policy.
Last action: May 19, 2026
HB 5332Placed on Third ReadingProhibition on public agencies purchasing or using certain drones
Prohibits law enforcement and other public agencies from purchasing or using UAS from manufacturers on the federal restricted drone list. Restricts government drone procurement. Tied to HB 5330.
Last action: May 12, 2026
SB 210In CommitteeOperating UAS near critical infrastructure
Amends MCL 750.45a to prohibit operating UAS in the vicinity of critical infrastructure. Similar to HB 5319 but in the Senate. Addresses critical infrastructure protection.
Last action: April 16, 2025
SB 525In CommitteeExceptions to prohibited use of UAS
Amends MCL 259.307 to expand exceptions to UAS operation prohibitions. Likely addresses exemptions for authorized operations and state use cases.
Last action: March 11, 2026
HB 4119In CommitteeSales tax exemptions for aircraft and aviation equipment
Amends MCL 205.54x to expand sales tax exemptions for aircraft and aviation equipment purchases. May apply to drones if classified as aircraft.
Last action: June 18, 2026
SB 152In CommitteeSales tax exemptions for aircraft and aviation equipment
Amends MCL 205.54x to expand sales tax exemptions for aircraft and aviation equipment. Companion to HB 4119. May apply to drones if classified as aircraft.
Last action: March 13, 2025
HB 4120In CommitteeUse tax exemptions for aircraft and aviation equipment
Amends MCL 205.94k to expand use tax exemptions for aircraft and aviation equipment. May apply to drones if classified as aircraft.
Last action: June 18, 2026
SB 153In CommitteeUse tax exemptions for aircraft and aviation equipment
Amends MCL 205.94k to expand use tax exemptions for aircraft and aviation equipment. Companion to HB 4120. May apply to drones if classified as aircraft.
Last action: March 13, 2025
University & College Drone Policies
| Institution | Policy Summary | Permit Required | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan | U-M prohibits outdoor drone operations on university property unless prior written authorization is granted through an application process reviewed by the Institutional Autonomous Systems Committee (IASC) and approved by the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer or their designee. Indoor UAS operations are allowed in approved facilities with established UAS safety procedures. Restrictions: Outdoor flights on any U-M property banned without waiver. Michigan Stadium TFR applies during athletic events. No flights over buildings, crowds, or parking areas. | Yes | Office of Campus Safety & Security / IASC (Institutional Autonomous Systems Committee) |
| Michigan State University | MSU requires all drone operations on campus to be approved by the Office of Regulatory Affairs and coordinated with MSU Police. Spartan Stadium has TFR restrictions during athletic events. Restrictions: Regulatory Affairs approval required for all flights. Spartan Stadium TFR during events. No unauthorized flights over campus buildings or facilities. | Yes | Office of Regulatory Affairs / MSU Police Department |
Last Updated
This page is automatically verified and updated weekly by our AI-powered legal research agent (v1.0.0). While we strive for accuracy, always verify critical information with official state sources.
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