Drone Laws in Indiana: 2025 Guide for Hobbyists and Professionals

When people search for drone laws in Indiana, they are often looking for clarity on where they can fly, what paperwork is required, and what restrictions apply to private property, hunting, and state parks. Indiana’s rolling farmland, historic towns, and natural landmarks such as Indiana Dunes National Park make it a popular state for aerial photography and drone activities. This guide provides an in-depth look at the federal and state rules that govern drones in Indiana, offering practical advice for tourists, hobbyists, and commercial operators.

For a broader perspective, see our global drone law guide and our summary of U.S. state drone regulations. Pilots seeking to fly commercially must also review the FAA Part 107 license requirements and ensure they pass the TRUST test for recreational flying.

FAA rules versus Indiana state rules

At the federal level, the FAA regulates all airspace in the United States. This means that in Indiana, like everywhere else, drone pilots must follow FAA standards: keep drones under 400 feet above ground level, maintain line of sight, avoid flying over people, and register drones that weigh more than 250 g. Commercial drone operators must hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Recreational pilots must pass the TRUST test. Knowing how these federal rules integrate with drone laws in Indiana is essential before flying.

Indiana adds another layer of rules. The state allows municipalities to control when and where drones can take off and land in local parks or near government facilities. For example, some counties prohibit drones near courthouses or public buildings. State law also places restrictions on using drones for surveillance without consent. This means filming neighbors, hovering near private homes, or monitoring property without permission can lead to fines or legal action. When planning flights in populated areas such as Indianapolis, Bloomington, or Fort Wayne, always check local ordinances in addition to FAA rules. These details highlight the importance of understanding drone laws in Indiana at every level.

Drone laws in Indiana state parks

One of the most frequently asked questions is: Can you fly a drone in Indiana state parks? The general rule is no, unless you have explicit authorisation from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This restriction is designed to protect wildlife, prevent disturbances to visitors, and avoid conflicts in busy recreation areas. Indiana Dunes National Park, a popular destination along Lake Michigan, is especially strict. Federal national park rules prohibit recreational drone use entirely, though researchers and filmmakers may apply for special permits. If your itinerary includes state-managed land, check directly with the park office before bringing your drone. These park rules form a core part of drone laws in Indiana that visitors often overlook.

Drone use for hunting and wildlife

Indiana has specific provisions about hunting. Can you use a drone to recover deer in Indiana? The short answer is no. Drones cannot be used to harass, track, or hunt wildlife in Indiana. This applies not only to deer recovery but to any activity that could give hunters an unfair advantage. Conservation officers enforce these rules, and violations may result in confiscation of equipment, fines, or the loss of hunting licenses. This aligns with broader U.S. principles to maintain fair-chase ethics in hunting. Even outside of hunting season, avoid flying drones near wildlife, as disturbing animals can attract penalties under conservation laws. These provisions reinforce why knowing drone laws in Indiana is so important for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Drone laws on private property in Indiana

Is it legal to fly a drone over private property in Indiana? Generally, yes, as long as you are flying within FAA rules and not invading privacy. Indiana law makes it illegal to use drones for surveillance without consent, so capturing video or images of people on their property could breach state privacy laws. Always respect your neighbors’ privacy, and if possible, notify them if you plan to fly near shared property boundaries. Importantly, homeowners cannot legally shoot down drones, as airspace is regulated by the FAA. Shooting a drone may be treated as destruction of property or even as a criminal offense. These privacy protections form another layer of drone laws in Indiana that pilots must respect.

Registration, licensing, and costs

Drones weighing more than 250 g must be registered with the FAA. The registration fee is $5 per drone for commercial use, or $5 per operator for recreational use, valid for three years. Commercial pilots in Indiana must also obtain a Part 107 license. The exam costs around $175 and covers airspace knowledge, safety procedures, and regulations. While the state of Indiana does not impose an additional license, local permits may be required for certain filming projects, especially in city parks or historic districts. Always budget time and costs for these requirements if your project is commercial. These administrative requirements highlight another aspect of drone laws in Indiana.

No-fly zones in Indiana

Indiana has multiple no-fly zones. Airports such as Indianapolis International, South Bend, and Fort Wayne maintain strict controlled airspace. Sensitive areas such as military bases, prisons, and nuclear facilities are permanently off-limits. Additionally, events such as the Indianapolis 500 often create temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) that ban drones for safety reasons. Use apps like the FAA’s B4UFLY or check the Indiana drone map for up-to-date restrictions. Understanding where no-fly zones exist is a crucial part of following drone laws in Indiana.

Common no-fly questions include: Can you fly drones at Indiana Dunes? No, it is prohibited without explicit permits. Can you fly in city centers? Only with LAANC authorisation and in compliance with local rules. Can you fly over stadiums? Absolutely not; FAA rules prohibit drones over stadiums during events with more than 30,000 people. These restrictions reinforce how comprehensive drone laws in Indiana can be.

Drone training and industry in Indiana

Indiana’s drone industry is expanding rapidly. Universities, colleges, and private schools across the state offer drone pilot training courses. These programs prepare students for the Part 107 exam and provide hands-on experience in aerial photography, mapping, agriculture, and inspection. Drone services in Indiana now include real estate photography, farm crop monitoring, infrastructure inspections, and creative media projects. As industries increasingly adopt drones, demand for licensed pilots is growing, particularly in metropolitan areas such as Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. For professionals, mastering drone laws in Indiana is as important as technical flying skills.

Insurance and liability

Although not required by law, drone insurance is highly recommended in Indiana. Liability coverage protects you if your drone damages property or injures someone. Many clients hiring drone services in Indiana demand proof of insurance before contracting work. Insurance providers often offer policies tailored to drone pilots, covering risks such as accidental crashes, data loss, or equipment theft. Factoring insurance into your compliance plan helps ensure you are fully covered under drone laws in Indiana.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a permit to fly a drone in Indiana? Yes, for commercial flights you need a Part 107 license. For recreational use, you must pass the TRUST test, and permits may be needed for certain parks or city-owned properties. These permit requirements link directly to drone laws in Indiana that every pilot should know.

Can you shoot down drones in Indiana? No, it is illegal to shoot down drones, as they are considered aircraft under FAA jurisdiction.

Can you fly a drone over private property in Indiana? Yes, but surveillance without consent is illegal, and you should always respect privacy rights.

Can you fly a drone in Indiana state parks? Not without explicit permission from the Department of Natural Resources. Indiana Dunes National Park prohibits recreational drones altogether.

Final tips for flying drones in Indiana

Flying in Indiana requires balancing FAA rules with state and municipal restrictions. To stay compliant, always register your drone, carry your Part 107 license or TRUST certificate, check local ordinances, and avoid restricted areas such as state parks, stadiums, and airports. Respecting drone laws in Indiana ensures your flights remain safe, legal, and enjoyable. Whether you are flying over rural farmland, capturing footage of Indianapolis, or exploring the beauty of Indiana’s lakes and forests, preparation and compliance are key to a stress-free drone experience.