Yes, flying drones over private property in Tennessee is legal under federal and state laws, but strict local and federal restrictions apply. Property owners retain rights to privacy and nuisance claims, while FAA regulations and Tennessee’s 2023 drone privacy law (T.C.A. § 39-17-910) impose additional compliance obligations. Operators must avoid reckless interference with landowner rights or prohibited surveillance activities.
Key Regulations for Flying Drones Over Private Property in Tennessee
- FAA Part 107 Compliance: All commercial drone operations require FAA Part 107 certification, including airspace authorization via LAANC for flights near private property in controlled airspace (e.g., Nashville, Memphis, or Knoxville metro areas). Recreational flyers must adhere to FAA recreational guidelines and register drones weighing over 0.55 lbs.
- Tennessee’s Drone Privacy Statute (T.C.A. § 39-17-910): Prohibits capturing images, videos, or data of private property without consent if the intent is to harass, surveil, or intrude upon reasonable privacy expectations. Violations may result in misdemeanor charges or civil liability.
- Local Ordinances and 2026 Compliance Shifts: Cities like Nashville and Chattanooga have enacted local drone ordinances restricting takeoff/landing on public property without permits. By 2026, Tennessee’s Department of Transportation (TDOT) plans to integrate UAS traffic management systems, requiring pre-flight airspace verification for flights over private land in high-density zones.
Operators must also respect Tennessee’s Peeping Tom laws (T.C.A. § 39-13-605) and avoid trespassing if drones enter restricted airspace above private property without permission. Failure to comply risks FAA enforcement actions, local citations, or tort claims for invasion of privacy.