New Jersey bill makes unauthorized drone operation under 250 feet over schools a disorderly persons offense

Original title: Prohibits operation of drone over school under certain circumstances.

Last action · January 13, 2026: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness CommitteeSponsors: Bailey, David, Jr. and 9 others

Companion · S 702same policy, Senate version

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What This Bill Would Do

Legislation in New Jersey criminalizes operating a drone below 250 feet over school buildings or grounds for surveillance, hovering without authorization, or using school property for takeoffs and landings. The measure classifies these actions as s, punishable by up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.

Why it matters

School administrators gain explicit authority to regulate airspace directly above their campuses, while commercial and recreational drone operators face misdemeanor-level penalties for unauthorized flights or landings on school grounds.

Who It Would Affect

Groups the bill's text would affect if enacted, as described in the record. Being affected is not a position for or against it.

Directly affected

drone operators

Operators face criminal penalties as a disorderly person if they fly drones below 250 feet over schools without authorization or use school grounds for takeoff and landing.

Directly affected

school administrators

Superintendents and chief school administrators receive the authority to grant or deny written authorization for low-altitude drone operations over their school buildings and grounds.

Directly affected

first responders

First responders are explicitly exempted from the restrictions when performing official duties in compliance with federal rules.

Key Facts

You don't have to trust us. Each fact below is taken straight from the official document - click any one to see the exact passage, highlighted in the original.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can authorize drone flights over a school under this bill?

The superintendent or chief school administrator may grant prior written authorization for drone operation over the school's building or grounds.

What altitude limit is established for drone flights over schools?

The restrictions apply to s operated below 250 feet over the building or grounds of any school.

Are first responders exempt from the school drone restrictions?

Yes, authorized use of an by a public employee, public entity, or first responder performing official duties in compliance with federal regulations is permitted.

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Where This Stands

Currently in committee. The next step in the legislative lifecycle is Floor Vote.

Procedural history

1 action

Jan 13, 2026HouseIntroduced
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee

Version history

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