Pacific Grove Municipal Code Ch. 11.72 Aircraft Landing; Recreational Uas Prohibited

For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:

“Aircraft”

means any device invented, used, or designed to navigate or fly in the air.

“Chief of Police”

means the Chief of the Pacific Grove Police Department, or their designee.

“City Manager”

means the City’s City Manager or their designee.

“Operate”

shall mean use and control, and includes flying over.

“Person”

means any individual or entity of any kind.

“Uncrewed Aircraft System” or “UAS”

means any device that flies, whether remotely piloted or autonomous, which includes devices commonly known as drones or model aircraft, that operates without a pilot onboard, and associated elements, including communication links and control equipment. “Recreational UAS” means UAS operated by any person for hobby or recreational purposes.

(Ord. 26-005, 2/4/2026)

(a) It is unlawful for any person to launch or land an aircraft, including a helicopter, or UAS, without a permit.

(b) Exceptions.

(1) A permit is issued by the City Manager;

(2) The landing of an emergency aircraft is authorized by the Chief of Police.

(3) The prohibitions and permit requirements set forth in this chapter shall not apply to any project or activity for which a valid city-issued use permit, architectural permit, or coastal development permit was approved prior to February 4, 2026.

(Ord. 26-005, 2/4/2026)

No person shall launch, land, or operate Recreational UAS anywhere in the City except when such operation is expressly authorized by federal and/or state law.

(Ord. 26-005, 2/4/2026)

(a) It is unlawful and declared a public nuisance for any person to violate any provision of this chapter.

(b) Violation of this chapter may result in seizure and impound of the UAS and shall be punished as set forth in Title 1 of this code.

(c) Each and every day a violation is maintained, caused, aided, abetted, concealed, suffered, or permitted is a separate offense.

(Ord. 26-005, 2/4/2026)