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FLORIDA - Starting October 1, a new Florida law will introduce tougher restrictions on drone operations, with potential criminal penalties for violations.
The legislation, passed in response to rising safety and privacy concerns, places new limits on where and how drones can be used across the state.
The law prohibits drones from flying over high-security areas, including airports and prisons, and bans the use of drones to deliver contraband or secretly surveil individuals without their permission.
State lawmakers argue the rules are necessary as drones transition from recreational gadgets to tools that can allegedly be used for spying, smuggling, or other illicit activity.
Carlo Ferriolo, a Fort Myers resident who uses drones to film local school events, expressed reservations about the legislation, saying lawmakers should have firsthand drone experience before setting such restrictions.
Still, he agreed that flying over airports should carry consequences.
Michael den Hartog, owner of Florida Drone Supply, noted that while drones have been misused around the world, including in military conflicts, they also offer critical benefits.
He cited examples of drones saving lives by delivering flotation devices to drowning victims.
The law also revokes a previous provision allowing property owners to shoot down drones flying overhead.
It further aims to protect privacy by outlawing drone surveillance over private property, though some residents, like Cape Coral’s Christopher Hernandez, question where the line between personal privacy and public space is drawn.
As the October deadline nears, Floridians are urged to review the updated drone laws and ensure their compliance.