Mastering Drone Laws in the USA: What Every Aerial Photographer Should Know
Mastering drone laws in the USA is essential for every aerial photographer to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while capturing stunning imagery.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees drone operations, requiring all drones weighing over 0.55 pounds to be registered.
Commercial drone pilots must obtain a Part 107 certification, which involves passing an aeronautical knowledge test covering airspace regulations, weather conditions, and operational limitations.
Recreational pilots must adhere to the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations, including flying within visual line of sight, staying under 400 feet, and avoiding restricted airspace.
Additionally, drone operators must respect privacy laws, as some states impose stricter rules regarding recording individuals or flying over private property.
Urban areas often have specific regulations, particularly around airports and government buildings, where Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) frequently apply.
Understanding airspace classifications is crucial since controlled airspace requires FAA authorization, often obtained through the LAANC system.
Moreover, nighttime operations, flying over people, and beyond-visual-line-of-sight flights have additional legal requirements.