California bill would restrict drone flights near large events

California legislators have approved a measure that would make it an infraction to fly a drone without authorization within 400 feet of, or directly over, a ticketed outdoor entertainment event. Concerts, sporting events, and performing arts shows at venues holding at least 1,000 people are all covered.

Assembly Bill 2113, introduced by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor, passed the Legislature on August 27. It now sits before Governor Gavin Newsom. If signed into law, a violation would bring a $500 fine.

The bill carves out exceptions for several operations. Drone pilots could fly with the event venue's permission. Venue employees acting in their official capacity would also be exempt, as would utility workers and emergency personnel performing their duties.

For drone operators, this could add a state layer to existing federal rules. A remote pilot holding a Part 107 certificate might have FAA authorization for a flight but still violate state law if the operation occurs within the 400-foot zone and does not meet an exemption.

The FAA maintains broad authority over national airspace, and federal statutes and court decisions have raised questions about how far state and local governments may go in regulating aircraft operations, flight paths, and altitudes. Aviation attorneys have already questioned whether California's proposed restriction crosses that line.