The federal rules apply everywhere
No matter the state, the FAA owns the airspace. Start here, then add Wisconsin's rules on top.
- Register drones 250 g or heavier (and any commercial drone) at FAADroneZone.
- Broadcast Remote ID if your drone must be registered.
- Stay at or below 400 ft AGL and within visual line of sight.
- Get LAANC authorization before flying in controlled airspace near airports.
- No takeoff/landing in national parks, over critical infrastructure, or in TFRs.
What's specific to Wisconsin
Wisconsin makes it a crime to use a drone to observe another person in a place where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, and restricts flights over correctional facilities.
We could not verify a clear statewide preemption posture. Assume local (city/county) drone ordinances may apply and verify with official sources before flying.
State-park and state-land drone rules vary by unit and can change; many state park systems restrict drone takeoff/landing without a permit. Verify with the managing agency before flying.
Local preemption: Local rules may apply (unverified)
We could not verify a clear statewide preemption posture; assume local rules may apply and verify before flying.
Official source
Always confirm against the primary source; state laws change and rules differ by locality and by park.
Wisconsin drone-law sourceNot sure if you need a license?
License rules are federal and the same in every state. Answer two questions to find out what you need.
Check what you need →Rules current as of June 2026; verify with the FAA (faa.gov/uas) and your state before flying. Educational, not legal advice.