Know Before You Fly
Recreational UAS operations within a 5 mile radius and Commercial UAS operations within a 2 mile radius can be verified on the map here.
To ensure the safety of all, the Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Congress have established specific safety guidelines for small UAS operators. Drones, weighing between 0.55 lbs. (250 grams) and up to 55 lbs. (25 kg.) must be registered with the FAA, as of Dec. 21, 2015.
Additionally, the reason for which a drone is operated will determine what type of registration required. Using a drone to capture photos or video for personal enjoyment falls under the FAA’s definition of recreational or hobby use, requiring a simple registration process. However, using a drone to create imagery for compensation is considered commercial operation and requires a more detailed registration process.
The FAA website can provide further clarification on which activities are views as commercial, non-hobby, or non-recreational UAS operations.
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Safety guidelines for recreational UAS
- Fly below 400 feet above ground level (AGL) at all times
- Keep your aircraft in sight at all times
- Remain clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations
- Do not fly near airports – stay outside a 5-mile radius from ANY active airport/airfield
- Do not fly near or over sensitive infrastructure or property; power stations, water treatment facilities, correctional facilities, sporting events, heavily traveled roadways
- Don’t fly an aircraft that weighs more than 55 lbs.
- Stay clear of FAA temporary flight restrictions; fires, crimes scenes, sporting events
- Follow community-based safety guidelines developed by organizations such as the Academy of Model Aeronautics.
- Check and follow all local laws and ordinances before flying over private property.
- Don’t be careless or reckless with your unmanned aircraft – you could be fined for endangering people or other aircraft
