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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need a license to fly a drone?
Depends on the type of flight operation. For recreational use, you don’t need a license but must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). For commercial use, you must obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate by passing an exam.
Can I use my drone for business without a Part 107 Certificate?
No, any drone operation for commercial purposes (real estate, inspections, photography, mapping, or imagery for monetized social media, etc.), requires a Part 107 Certificate.
Do I need to register my drone?
Yes, if your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams), you must register it with the FAA. This applies to both recreational and commercial use. Registration can be done through the FAA’s DroneZone portal.
Do I need Remote Identification for my drone?
Yes, as of March 16th, 2024, drones over 0.55 pounds (250 grams), must broadcast Remote ID information. Some drones have built in Remote ID, while others require an external module.
What is Remote Identification?
Remote Identification is the technology delveloped to safely integrate drones into the National Airspace System. Remote ID operates much like that of a Transponder on manned aircraft. From takeoff to shutdown, the drone broadcasts: Drone ID, Drone Location and Altitude, Drone Velocity, Takeoff and Control Station Location. Remote ID may be integrated into the drones on board flight systems or attached as an externally mounted broadcast module.
Where am I allowed to fly my drone?
Drones must be flown within Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) below 400 feet in uncontrolled Class G airspace. You should avoid airports, stadiums, national parks, military bases, and restricted zones.
How do I check where I can legally fly my drone?
Pilots may check airspace, temporary flight restrictions (TFR’s) or local advisories, using apps like B4UFLY or ALOFT at home or on location before flight.
Can I fly my drone near an airport?
No, unless you receive prior FAA authorization via LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability). Flying near airports without permission can result in fines or criminal charges.
Can I fly my drone in a National Park?
No, drones are prohibited in all U.S. National Parks unless you have special research or film permits. (Violators can be fined.)
Can I fly my drone at night?
Yes, but only if your drone has anti-collision lights visible for at least three statute miles. Commercial pilots operating under Part 107 must complete appropriate training.
Can I fly my drone over people?
You can fly over people only if your drone meets the FAA’s requirements for “Operations Over People” (Category 1-4). Heavier drones may require waivers or special permissions. Your drone must also have Remote I.D.
Can I fly my drone indoors?
Yes, drones may be legally flown indoors according to FAA regulations. Special care and consideration must be taken to ensure safety of flight, and avoid injury to persons and damage to private property.
Can I fly my drone over private property?
Yes, but with special considerations. Airspace is PUBLIC USE, including the airspace directly above private property. It is regulated by the FAA, not homeowners. Drones may safely and legally fly over private property for a variety of purposes. When able, drone pilots should seek to respect privacy, and avoid UNESSECESSARY overflights to prevent legal issues.
Can I shoot down a drone flying over my property?
NO! The FAA classifies drones as aircraft, regardless of their size or purpose. Therefore, drones are protected under the same laws prohibiting interference or destruction of manned aircaft. It is a crime (FELONY) in the United States under 18U.S.C. § 32 to willingly damage, destroy, or disable an aircraft in flight. Violation of 18U.S.C. § 32 may result in fines of up to $250,000.00 and Imprisonment for up to 20 Years.
What should I do if I see a drone flying over my property?
If you believe the drone is being used IMPROPERLY or INVADING PRIVACY, report it to local law enforcement. The FAA does not enforce privacy laws but does regulate unsafe drone operations.
What should I do if my drone crashes into someone's property?
If your drone damages property or injures someone, you could be held liable. This is why drone insurance is recommended for both commercial and recreational pilots. Report the infraction to the property owner, and politely and respectfully ask to recover your aircraft. Notify the FAA if the incident meets reporting requirements under 14 CFR § 107.9
What happens if I fly my drone illegally?
Illegal drone operations can result in:
Fines up to $32,666 per violation for illegal operations.
Confiscation of your drone.
Possible criminal charges and imprisonment (for serious infractions).
What Industries benefit most from the use of drones?
Drones are widely used in:
Commercial Marketing (aerial imagery for websites, social media and online presence)
Real Estate (aerial photography & videography)
Construction & Infrastructure (inspections & progress monitoring, site mapping)
Agriculture (crop health analysis & spraying)
Public Safety (search & rescue, law enforcement)
Insurance & Roofing (damage assessment & claims processing)
Is drone footage Copyright protected?
Like other professional photographers, drone pilots (aerial imaging professionals) typically retain the copyright to the imagery captured during flight. To safeguard their work, clients usually receive watermarked proofs of photographs or videos before final delivery.