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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need a license to fly a drone?

Whether you need a drone license depends on your type of operation. For recreational drone flying, you don’t need a license, but you must complete and pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). For commercial drone use—including aerial photography, real estate marketing, inspections, or mapping—you are required to obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, which involves passing a written exam.

Can I use my drone for business without a Part 107 Certificate?

No. Any commercial drone operation requires a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This includes drone services such as real estate photography, aerial inspections, mapping, surveying, videography, or even monetized drone footage on social media. Flying for business purposes without Part 107 certification is against FAA regulations.

Do I need to register my drone?

Yes. If your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams), the FAA requires drone registration before flying. Registration applies to both recreational and commercial drone pilots and can be completed through the FAA’s official DroneZone portal.

Do I need Remote Identification for my drone?

Yes. As of March 16, 2024, all drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) must comply with the FAA’s Remote ID rule. Some drones come with built-in Remote ID, while others require an external broadcast module. Remote ID is mandatory for both recreational and commercial drone operators and registration must be done through the FAA DroneZone portal.

What is Remote Identification?

Remote Identification is an FAA requirement that allows drones to be safely integrated into the National Airspace System. Similar to an aircraft transponder, Remote ID broadcasts important information from takeoff to landing, including:

  • Drone ID number

  • Drone location and altitude

  • Drone velocity

  • Takeoff location and control station location

Remote ID may be built into your drone’s flight system or added with an external broadcast module.

Where am I allowed to fly my drone?

In the U.S., drones must be flown within Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) and below 400 feet in uncontrolled Class G airspace. Drone pilots must avoid airports, stadiums, national parks, military bases, and restricted airspace. Always check the FAA’s B4UFLY app or an approved airspace map before flying.

How do I check where I can legally fly my drone?

Drone pilots can check airspace restrictions, Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), and local advisories using FAA-approved apps such as B4UFLY or Aloft (formerly Kittyhawk). These tools help you determine whether your location is safe and legal for drone operations before every flight.

Can I fly my drone near an airport?

No, you cannot legally fly a drone near an airport without prior authorization. To operate in controlled airspace around airports, you must use the FAA’s LAANC system (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability). Flying near airports without approval can result in fines, enforcement actions, or even criminal charges.

Can I fly my drone in a National Park?

No. Drones are prohibited in all U.S. National Parks unless you obtain a special research or filming permit. Flying without permission may result in fines or other penalties. Always check park regulations before attempting drone flights in protected areas.

Can I fly my drone at night?

Yes, you can legally fly drones at night if your aircraft is equipped with anti-collision lights visible from at least three statute miles. Commercial drone pilots operating under Part 107 must also complete the required night operations training.

Can I fly my drone over people?

Drone flights over people are only allowed if the aircraft meets the FAA’s “Operations Over People” requirements (Categories 1–4). Heavier drones may require special waivers or permissions. In all cases, your drone must comply with the Remote ID rule.

Can I fly my drone indoors?

Yes. Since FAA regulations only govern navigable outdoor airspace, drones may be flown indoors. However, operators must exercise extreme caution to avoid injuries, collisions, or property damage when flying inside.

Can I fly my drone over private property?

Yes, drones can legally fly over private property because the airspace is public use and regulated by the FAA. However, pilots should respect homeowner privacy, avoid unnecessary flights over residences, and follow FAA safety rules to prevent potential legal disputes.

Can I shoot down a drone flying over my property?

No. The FAA classifies drones as aircraft, making it a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 32 to damage, destroy, or interfere with one in flight. Shooting down a drone can result in fines up to $250,000 and imprisonment of up to 20 years.

What should I do if I see a drone flying over my property?

If you suspect a drone is being used improperly, dangerously, or invading privacy, report it to local law enforcement. While the FAA regulates airspace safety, privacy concerns fall under local and state jurisdictions

What should I do if my drone crashes into someone's property?

If your drone crashes and causes property damage or personal injury, you may be held liable. Always notify the property owner, request permission to retrieve your drone, and handle the situation respectfully. For serious accidents, report to the FAA under 14 CFR § 107.9. To protect yourself, both recreational and commercial drone pilots are strongly encouraged to carry drone liability insurance.

What happens if I fly my drone illegally?

Operating a drone illegally can result in serious consequences, including:

  • Civil fines up to $32,666 per violation

  • Confiscation of your drone

  • Criminal charges and imprisonment for reckless or dangerous operations

Always follow FAA drone regulations to avoid penalties.

What Industries benefit most from the use of drones?

Drones provide cost-effective, high-quality solutions across multiple industries, including:

  • Commercial Marketing (aerial photography & videography for websites and social media)

  • Real Estate (listing photos, virtual tours, and aerial videos)

  • Construction & Infrastructure (site mapping, inspections, progress monitoring)

  • Agriculture (crop health analysis, surveying, spraying)

  • Public Safety (search & rescue, firefighting, law enforcement)

  • Insurance & Roofing (damage assessments, claims documentation)

Is drone footage Copyright protected?

Yes. Just like traditional photography, drone imagery and video content are protected by copyright law. Typically, the drone pilot or aerial photographer owns the rights to the footage. Clients often receive watermarked proofs before the final delivery of licensed content.