The proposed bill would amend existing statutes regarding the regulation of unmanned aircraft by cities, towns, and counties in Arizona. Under current law, municipalities are prohibited from enacting any ordinances related to the ownership or operation of unmanned aircraft or systems. The bill introduces new provisions that clarify and expand the scope of this prohibition, specifically stating that cities and towns cannot regulate unmanned aircraft, unmanned aircraft systems, or commercial drone delivery systems. However, it allows for certain exceptions, such as permitting local governments to enact rules regarding public unmanned aircraft owned by the municipality, land use approvals for commercial drone delivery systems in residential areas, and regulations concerning model aircraft in designated parks.

Additionally, the bill defines key terms such as "commercial drone delivery system," "model aircraft," and "unmanned aircraft," while also specifying that local authorities retain the ability to enforce generally applicable zoning and safety regulations near airports, provided these do not interfere with flight operations. The bill effectively replaces previous language that allowed for some local regulation, thereby tightening the restrictions on municipal authority over unmanned aircraft operations. Overall, if enacted, the bill would significantly alter the regulatory landscape for unmanned aircraft in Arizona, emphasizing state-level control over local ordinances.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-500.54, 11-256.31, 13-3729
House Engrossed Version: 9-500.54, 11-256.31, 13-3729
Senate Engrossed Version: 9-500.54, 11-256.31, 13-3729