By USA Daily Now 
A groundbreaking bill advancing through the Florida Senate could empower homeowners to take action against drones infringing on their privacy, setting the stage for a potential clash with federal airspace regulations. The legislation, which seeks to regulate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), expands protections against drone flights near sensitive areas such as airports and correctional facilities. Notably, it grants homeowners the right to use reasonable force to halt drones violating their expectation of privacy.
RAUL GASTESI, a Florida-based attorney, emphasized the growing privacy concerns tied to drones. “No one wants to have a drone hovering over their property, filming their activities,” he told Fox News Digital. “While most states have privacy laws addressing drones, I haven’t seen one that permits self-help measures.”
The bill highlights a legal gray area between homeowners’ rights and federal aviation laws. Under federal regulations, drones are permitted to fly over private residential properties as long as they remain in unrestricted airspace. However, low-flying drones causing disturbances could lead to trespassing or stalking charges.
Florida’s **2024 Freedom from Unwarranted Surveillance Act** prohibits drones from capturing images or videos of private property but does not address live surveillance. Gastesi explained, “If someone uses a drone to view or record private property with the intent to violate privacy, that’s different from capturing public activities like a baseball game in a park.”
The proposed bill raises concerns over its vague definition of “reasonable force” and its potential conflict with federal law. Shooting down a drone, for instance, is illegal under federal aviation regulations, with violators facing severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The FAA reiterated this stance, stating, “Shooting at any aircraft, including unmanned ones, poses significant safety risks.”
KEITH L. TRUENOW, the bill’s sponsor and a Republican state senator, has yet to comment on the legislation’s implications. If passed, the bill could create confusion for homeowners navigating conflicting state and federal laws.
The FAA also warned of the dangers of interfering with drone flights, particularly in populated areas. “An unmanned aircraft hit by gunfire could crash, causing harm or property damage, or collide with other airborne objects,” the agency stated. Such actions could result in civil penalties or criminal charges.
Gastesi cautioned against the potential misuse of firearms to down drones, citing Florida’s strict gun laws. “Discharging a weapon in residential areas is prohibited unless in self-defense. Shooting a drone wouldn’t meet that threshold legally,” he said. “This opens the door to dangerous scenarios.”
The legislation reflects rising anxiety over drone surveillance as sightings increase nationwide. If enacted, it could inspire similar measures in other states grappling with the challenges of evolving drone technology. “States with liberal gun laws and open carry policies are likely to follow suit,” Gastesi predicted.
The bill, which has gained traction in Florida’s legislative committees, is slated for Senate consideration. If approved, it would take effect in October 2025.
**Sources:**
[Fox News Digital](https://www.foxnews.com) | [Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)](https://www.faa.gov)