8 Legal ways to stop drones from flying over your house
As drones have increased in popularity among hobbyists, it’s not uncommon for drones to fly over your house. Drones, while incredibly useful and versatile, pose a range of potential harms to individuals. From physical injury due to crashes or propeller contact to privacy violations and security threats, the risks associated with drones are real. Today I want to share legal ways to block drones from your property to help yourself against flying drones.
1. Ask the drone pilot to stop flying over your house.
Maybe hobbyists and amateur drone pilots didn't realize that drones disturb you. So you can find them and politely persuade them to not fly the drones over your property. Because drone pilots have to be within sight distance of their drone, you should be able to spot them in the area. If they don't follow your advice, you can take the next solution.
2. Consider setting up security cameras to capture evidence
Understanding drone detection is important. Drones typically make a distinct buzzing sound and may have visible lights. Being able to spot them helps you document any privacy violations. Consider setting up security cameras that can capture evidence of drones repeatedly flying over your property. After collecting the proof, You can contact your local law enforcement if you notice drones repeatedly hovering over your property, especially at low altitudes.
3. File a complaint with the FAA if the drone pilot breaks the law.
You can report a drone that is breaking FAA rules and regulations by contacting your local Flight Standards District Office. Find your local office here: https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/field_offices/fsdo/ But before complaining to them, you need to know whether they break the law or not:
It’s legal for a drone to fly over your home so long as the pilot obeys the Federal Aviation Administration’s rules for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
If the drone breaks the rules (ex: flying at night, above 400 feet (120 m), or over 100 miles (160 km) per hour) report it to the FAA.
4. Use "No Drone Zone" or "Privacy Protected" signs to mark your property as a drone-free area.
You can make or order your signs "drone free are" rather than"no drone zone". Because "No fly zone" signage violates the FAA UAS regulations. It means you forbid hobbyists to fly drones, you will be reported and asked to remove the signage. Hopefully, drone pilots see your "drone-free area” signages and heed your warning signs. So you won't be able to see drones flying on your roof.
5. Plant tall trees or installing privacy screens over patios and decks
Tall trees can create a physical barrier and interfere with the drone’s signal to its pilot, causing the drone to lose control and crash. These natural barriers make aerial viewing more difficult while also beautifying your space. Retractable awnings or pergolas can provide overhead coverage for outdoor areas when needed.
6. Consider physical barriers
In extreme cases, you can consider resorting to physical barriers like netting or fences (such as anti-drone nets) to discourage drones from flying over their property. However, these can be costly and impractical in all situations.
6. Advocate for legislation that limits drone usage.
Many people are concerned about privacy issues related to drones. Contact your members of Congress or House Representatives and encourage them to support bills that regulate drone flights over private property. Alternatively, you can connect with advocacy groups that restrict the use of drones above private property to protect privacy.
7. Working with your neighbors helps
You can establish a community watch program or WhatsApp group, and share on social media platforms to address drone privacy through a community effort.
8. Install bright outdoor light with motion sensors
When activated at night, these lights can make it difficult for drones to capture clear footage while also alerting you to activity overhead.
