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FLORIDA - A new bill making its way through the Florida Senate would give homeowners the right to use “reasonable force” against drones they believe are invading their privacy.
The legislation aims to expand the state's drone restrictions, including prohibiting flights over sensitive areas like airports and prisons, while introducing controversial new rights for private property owners.
Under the proposed law, residents could take direct action if they feel a drone is violating their reasonable expectation of privacy.
However, the bill does not define what “reasonable force” means, raising concerns about possible misuse of firearms and conflicts with federal regulations.
Currently, FAA rules prohibit any interference with aircraft in flight, including drones.
Violating those rules can lead to criminal charges and civil penalties.
An FAA spokesperson stated, “Shooting at an aircraft—manned or unmanned—is a federal offense and a serious safety hazard.”
Attorney Raul Gastesi cautioned that while people may want to protect their homes, using force could bring unintended consequences.
“It’s not just about stopping the drone. What happens when it falls and injures someone?” he said.
Florida law already limits discharging firearms in residential areas, except for self-defense.
Whether shooting down a drone would meet that standard remains unclear.
The bill has advanced quickly and could become law by October 2025 if passed.
Legal experts warn it may set up a direct conflict between state and federal authority, particularly in states with more lenient firearm laws.
The FAA has declined to comment on the bill, citing its policy on pending legislation.