Bill > HB644

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for drone usage in New Hampshire state parks, permitting commercial and recreational drone operations with specific conditions. Drone operators must possess either a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 commercial drone certification or pass the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). The bill prohibits drone operations that interfere with other park users' enjoyment and restricts flying in certain areas like Cannon Mountain ski area during ski season and Flume Gorge from May through October. Operators are fully liable for any injury or property damage caused by their drones and must retrieve drones that land in state parks, potentially facing a retrieval fee up to $100 if the drone lands in an inaccessible location. The bill also strictly prohibits using drones for video surveillance of private citizens without their written consent. Commercial drone operators may be charged a daily fee of up to $25, and violations can result in fines up to $300, with these funds being credited to the state park fund. The bill provides the park commissioner discretion to waive certain restrictions and establishes a clear framework for responsible drone use in state parks, with the regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=0721&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB644