Practical Guide to Drone Laws & Regulations for Remote Pilots

As the NAS becomes increasingly congested, managing the safe and efficient use of airspace is becoming a growing challenge. Before August 2016, drone pilots had the freedom to fly in a significant portion of controlled and uncontrolled airspace with few restrictions. As drone use grew, many people expressed concerns over their safety, especially with no drone laws or rules being in place. FAA drone regulations were first solidified in August 2016 with the implementation of 14 CFR Part 107.

The FAA's unmanned aircraft rules have evolved since their initial implementation but are still relatively straightforward. If you are unfamiliar with them, this article will serve as a crash course on the basics of what is covered under 14 CFR Part 107.

As you may already know, the FAA is the governing body tasked with regulating and overseeing all aspects of civil aviation in the United States. This authority extends to the NAS, affecting all drone operations. Whether you want to fly a drone for fun or as a commercial pilot, you must understand and follow these rules. Historically, some rules, such as Remote ID, have not been popular with drone pilots. However, these rules are designed to ensure safety, security, and efficiency in airspace usage.

While we won't be able to cover every rule and regulation related to operating drones in the NAS, we will identify some of the most important ones to know. It is crucial to remember that if you are flying drones, you are responsible for anything that happens as a result of the drone's operation. Any time you spend familiarizing yourself with applicable FAA regulations will be well spent. We will break federal regulations into five categories:

Like crewed aircraft with their tail numbers, called "N-numbers," most drones require a registration number. Drone registration can be completed on the FAA's website and only costs $5 for a three-year registration. Any drone weighing more than 0.55 lbs (250 grams) and less than 55 lbs (25 kg) must be registered with the FAA. If your drone weighs less than 0.55 lbs (250 grams), you only need to register it if you are flying it commercially. In this case, it would need to be registered regardless of weight.

Registration numbers must be easy to read and placed on the drone's exterior. This can be done with stickers, engraving, or other methods.

There are numerous rules related to operating a drone along with some exceptions to the rules. An in-depth understanding of the operating rules only comes with studying all regulations under Part 107. Here are some of the basics to get you started.

Everyone flying drones commercially must have a Part 107 certification. Flying in this manner requires a more in-depth understanding of FAA regulations and drone requirements. If you do not already understand the material on the FAA's aeronautical knowledge test, you will need to learn it.

Online courses are an excellent place to start if you want to pass the Part 107 exam. Schools like Altitude University, Gold Seal, and the Pilot Institute offer excellent programs at affordable prices. Additional study materials can be purchased through the ASA and Sporty's. 

At minimum, you’ll need to complete the following:

When it comes to privacy, laws are vague. Rather than establishing set guidelines, drone pilots are supposed to respect people's privacy. There are no altitude limitations or distances a pilot must keep away from people. Local regulations may be more specific, but this is where you need to use common sense.

For example, if you are filming residential real estate and a neighboring home has children playing in a pool, flying 25 feet above them isn't the best idea. Use common sense. It may be helpful to notify people ahead of time that you are flying in the area.

On the side of safety, the FAA wants you to report accidents that occur as a result of your drone operations. Any operation that results in serious injury or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported to the FAA within ten days. The $500 does not include damage to your drone.

As you can see from our brief overview of Part 107 regulations, the FAA has implemented many rules to keep drone operations safe in the NAS. While federal regulations are pretty comprehensive, state and local regulators in some areas may implement additional requirements and restrictions. For example, some locations prohibit flying drones in parks or near schools. Others may have more detailed regulations regarding privacy. All drone pilots must familiarize themselves with local ordinances wherever they are flying.

You now have a good foundational understanding of the rules and regulations related to the Part 107. Here are a few pro tips to help you stay current with rules and get the most out of legal drone operations.

The rapid growth of drone use in the United States highlights the importance and necessity of the FAA's rules and regulations related to operating UASs. Remote pilots should be familiar with drone regulations to get the most out of their flights while keeping the NAS safe. Responsible pilots will learn these rules and take time to stay informed about any updates to 14 CFR Part 107. If you would like to learn more about the Part 107, check out online courses and other resources to gain an in-depth understanding of these rules. 

Flying drones as a hobby or commercially is fun and can be a great way to make a living. Regardless of whether you are a recreational or a professional flier, follow the rules in 14 CFR Part 107. By doing so, you’ll get the most out of your flights and keep the skies safe for everyone.

It depends on how you plan to use the drone. If you are flying commercially, you need a license. If you are flying just for fun, you do not need a license as long as your drone weighs less than 55 pounds.

Usually, you can fly a drone over private property. This is because the Federal Government owns the sky above a property. You still need to respect people’s privacy and follow local or state laws that may be more restrictive than the federal guidelines.

If you are flying commercially, you will need a license regardless of the drone’s size. If you are flying just for fun, you will not need a license as long as the drone is less than 55 pounds.

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