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Writer's pictureJay H

Colorado Drone Laws 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Drones are an incredible tool for capturing breathtaking views of Colorado’s landscapes, assisting in inspections, or simply enjoying a fun hobby. However, with great power comes great responsibility! As a drone pilot in 2025, understanding Colorado’s drone laws is essential to flying safely and legally. Here's a straightforward guide to help you navigate the rules.


dji inspire flying in colorado mountains

Where Can You Fly Legally in Colorado?


In Colorado, you can fly drones in many public and private spaces, but there are restrictions. Here's what you need to know:


  • Public Lands: Flying is generally allowed in most city and county parks. However, check local rules as some municipalities have bans or require permits.


  • State Parks: Drone use is prohibited in Colorado state parks unless you have special permission. Reach out to the park office for guidance.


  • National Parks: Flying drones is not allowed in national parks. Colorado is home to stunning parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, but these areas are off-limits to drones.


  • Restricted Areas: Avoid military bases, prisons, and wildlife refuges as these areas often have strict no-fly zones.


Use apps like B4UFLY or AirMap to check if your planned flight location is in restricted airspace.


Manitou Springs Proposes Significant Change Drone laws


Recently, Manitou Springs proposed new regulations that may limit the public flying of drones, specifically targeting activities that "interfere with property enjoyment" and attempting to establish "City Airspace" as controllable by the city.


As cities like Manitou Springs continue to refine their drone laws, it's important to check local ordinances or official websites for the most up-to-date information.


Colorado Towns with Special Drone Laws


In addition to federal regulations, several Colorado municipalities have implemented their own drone laws and application processes. Here are some notable examples:


City of Denver


Denver's Department of Parks and Recreation prohibits the operation of drones in any park facilities unless in areas specifically designated for such activities by the DPR Executive Director. These designated areas, such as model airplane or helicopter flying zones, may have additional rules and regulations posted on-site. Learn more here.


City of Boulder


Boulder prohibits launching, landing, or operating drones on any Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) land without a permit. Permits are typically issued for public land and wildlife management, research, search and rescue, and public safety purposes. Recreational drone use is generally not permitted in these areas. Learn more here.


City of Cherry Hills Village


Cherry Hills Village requires all drones to be registered with the FAA and prohibits drone operations over city property, including public streets, trails, parks, and public buildings, without written authorization from the City Manager. Additionally, operating a drone over another person's private property without their consent is prohibited. Learn more here.


City of Louisville


Launching, landing, or operating a drone in any city park or open space is prohibited, except for emergency landings by city law and code enforcement officers. Learn more here.


City of Loveland


Loveland allows recreational drone use without a permit in designated areas within specific parks, including Barnes Park and Fairgrounds Fields, Centennial Park, Fairgrounds Park, Loveland Sports Park, Mehaffey Park, and North Lake Park. Flying over people or crowds is prohibited, and drones must not fly near nesting birds or be used to discharge or drop any payload. Learn more here.


City of Fort Collins


Fort Collins prohibits the operation of motorized aircraft, including drones, in any area designated and posted by the city as a natural area. Learn more here.


Town of Telluride


Operating a drone over town property requires a permit issued by the Town Manager. Applications must be submitted at least five business days before the intended flight date and must specify the exact dates, times, and locations for the flight. All town property must remain open to the public during drone operations unless additional permissions for closures are obtained. The town may also charge fees for the use of its property or resources. Learn more here.


Always check with local authorities or official city websites for the most current information and any required permits or permissions.


How High Can You Fly?


The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) restricts how high you can fly a drone to ensure the safety of both manned and unmanned aircraft in the airspace. The primary reason for the restriction is to prevent drone operations from interfering with commercial, private, and military aircraft, which typically fly at higher altitudes.


drone photo of Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Photo credits @jeevesdrones on Facebook

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules cap your drone’s altitude at 400 feet above ground level (AGL). This ensures safe distances from manned aircraft and protects everyone’s airspace.


Do You Need a Part 107 Certification?


If you’re flying a drone for commercial purposes—whether it's real estate photography, inspections, or any money-making activity—you need a Part 107 certification. Hobbyists flying purely for fun do not need this certification but must still follow FAA guidelines.


How to Get a Part 107 Certification


  • Study: Review the FAA’s study materials, which cover topics like airspace classification, weather, and drone operation.


  • Take the Test: Schedule your Part 107 test at an FAA-approved testing center. The test includes 60 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll need a score of 70% or higher to pass.


  • Register Your Drone: Any drone weighing more than 0.55 pounds must be registered with the FAA.


  • Renew Your Certification: Part 107 certificates must be renewed every two years by completing a free online training course.


What Is a TRUST Certification?


The TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) certification is required for hobbyist drone pilots. It’s free, easy, and ensures you understand the basics of safe drone operation. You can take the TRUST test online through FAA-approved organizations like the Academy of Model Aeronautics or Drone U.


Rules for Flying Over People and Cars


The FAA has strict rules about flying over people and moving vehicles:


  • Over People: You cannot fly over groups of people unless you have a drone specifically designed to meet safety standards (e.g., lightweight drones with risk-reducing features).


  • Over Cars: Avoid flying over moving vehicles. You can fly over stationary cars only if people inside have given consent.


Colorado Drone Laws 2025 for Flying in Restricted Airspace Near Airports


Colorado has busy airports like Denver International (DIA) and smaller regional airports. Here are the rules:


  • Restricted Airspace: Airports are surrounded by controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, or E), and you must request permission via the FAA’s LAANC system to fly in these areas.


  • Safety First: Never fly near runways or disrupt manned aircraft operations. Keep your drone within visual line of sight (VLOS) at all times.


Final Thoughts


Drone laws might seem overwhelming at first, but following these rules ensures everyone’s safety and keeps Colorado’s skies open for enjoyment. Whether you’re snapping real estate photos, exploring a new hobby, or flying commercially, staying informed is key.


If you have questions about drone laws or need professional drone services, contact Jeeves Drones. We’re here to help you navigate the skies responsibly!


For more updates and resources, visit jeevesdrones.com.

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