A groundbreaking bill advancing through the Florida Senate could grant homeowners the authority to use reasonable force to neutralize drones that infringe on their privacy, setting the stage for a potential clash with federal airspace regulations. The proposed legislation, which aims to tighten restrictions on unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), also expands protected zones—such as airports and correctional facilities—where drone flights are prohibited.
The bill’s most contentious provision allows homeowners to intervene when drones violate their reasonable expectation of privacy. However, it does not define what constitutes “reasonable force,” raising legal and safety concerns that could pit Florida law against the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
RAUL GASTESI, a Florida-based attorney, emphasized the unique nature of the proposal. “Almost every state has privacy laws governing drones, but I’ve never seen one that permits self-help,” he told Fox News Digital. “No one wants a drone hovering over their property, recording their activities.”
Under current federal law, drones can legally fly over private residential areas as long as they remain in unrestricted airspace. However, operators could face charges for trespassing or stalking if their low-flying drones create a nuisance. Florida’s 2024 Freedom from Unwarranted Surveillance Act already prohibits drones from photographing or recording private property without consent, but it does not address live surveillance.
Gastesi highlighted the complexities of defining privacy expectations. “If someone uses a drone to record my daughters sunbathing in my backyard, that’s a clear violation of privacy. But if a drone captures a public park activity, the expectation of privacy is different,” he explained.
The bill’s ambiguity has sparked concerns about potential conflicts with federal law, which criminalizes tampering with aircraft—including drones. Violators face fines and up to five years in prison. “Shooting at an aircraft, even a drone, poses significant safety risks,” the FAA warned in a statement. “An unmanned aircraft hit by gunfire could crash, causing injuries or property damage.”
The bill’s sponsor, STATE SEN. KEITH L. TRUENOW (R-FL), has not yet commented on the legislation. If passed, the law would take effect in October 2025, allowing homeowners to act against drones over their property but leaving them vulnerable to federal prosecution. “Just because a state permits an action doesn’t mean the federal government won’t prosecute,” Gastesi cautioned.
The proposal has raised alarms about the potential misuse of firearms in residential areas. Florida law prohibits discharging guns in neighborhoods except in self-defense scenarios, but Gastesi doubts that shooting down a drone would qualify. “You’re defending your privacy, not your property,” he said. “Permitting firearm use in open spaces is deeply concerning.”
The bill reflects growing unease over the increasing prevalence of drones across the U.S. and could inspire similar legislation in other states. “States with liberal gun laws and open carry policies are likely to follow Florida’s lead,” Gastesi predicted.
Currently, the bill is set to be considered by the Florida Senate after sailing through committees with minimal opposition.
[Sources: Fox News Digital](https://www.foxnews.com)
[FAA Statement](https://www.faa.gov)