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Committee backs one‑mile drone ban over ticketed events after industry support

Arizona Senate Public Safety Committee · January 28, 2026

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Summary

SB 11‑60, as amended, prohibits most civilian drone operations within 5,280 feet of ticketed entertainment events but includes exemptions for authorized operators, utilities and property owners; NASCAR and Live Nation testified in support and the committee voted 7‑0 to advance the bill.

The Arizona Senate Public Safety Committee adopted an amendment and advanced SB 11‑60 on Jan. 27, 2026, establishing a statewide prohibition on operating civil unmanned aircraft within 5,280 feet (one mile) above ticketed entertainment events, with exemptions for persons who have legal authority over the event, employees working the event, public utilities performing official business, and private property owners operating their drones consistent with federal law.

Sponsor Senator Dunn told the committee the bill addresses a gap in current drone laws that leaves many large concerts, festivals and other ticketed events unprotected from unauthorized unmanned aircraft. He said unauthorized drones can pose risks including crashes into spectators, interference with emergency responses, surveillance, or otherwise being used for criminal activity.

Industry representatives endorsed the measure. James Hamilton, speaking for NASCAR, said the bill closes a loophole and would not impede future air‑taxi development; Sean Reed, representing Live Nation, said Live Nation supports the bill as a safety measure and noted similar laws have been adopted in other states.

The committee adopted a Payne amendment expanding the protective distance to one mile and voted 7‑0 to give the bill a do‑pass recommendation. Committee members said reasonable exemptions protect authorized operations and emphasized the measure preserves federal authority while providing statewide clarity for venues and operators.

SB 11‑60 will move forward for further consideration and any implementing rules or local coordination that may be necessary to operationalize enforcement and exemptions.