Operating limitations for small unmanned aircraft

In plain English

These are the core operating limits for a small drone. In short: stay at or below 400 ft above the ground (or within 400 ft of a structure), no faster than 100 mph, keep at least 3 statute miles visibility from your control station, and stay 500 ft below and 2,000 ft horizontally from clouds.

Key points

• Max groundspeed: 100 mph (87 knots).
• Max altitude: 400 ft AGL, or within 400 ft of a structure (you may go higher near a tall structure).
• Minimum flight visibility: 3 statute miles from the control station.
• Cloud clearance: 500 ft below, 2,000 ft horizontal.

Common pitfalls

• Climbing above 400 ft AGL in open areas "for a better shot."
• Flying in marginal visibility or too close to cloud.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation.*