Drones are more powerful than ever, and it’s not a surprise that you’re looking to get in on the action in terms of making use of the functionality they can provide. That being said, you should also understand that there are a lot of restrictions and rules to remember when you’re looking at flying your drone. It’s important to remember that this is not a substitute for legal advice and, if you are uncertain, you should consult a local attorney and comply to all federal, state and local laws and rules.
License
When looking to put your craft in the air, you should make sure that you have all of the proper requirements put in place. This includes an up to date license. Since these rules and restrictions on a license are known for changing quickly and without any notice, make sure that you always keep up to date with the license requirements including renewal and the minimum requirements for your drone.
Safety
As you may have guessed, safety is key. Safety rules are going to be changing quickly and often, so you will find it useful to keep up to date regularly on the rules through your your favorite method and trusted resource. However, general rules include never flying it near people or other aircraft (including other drones). You should never fly within 5 miles of an airport unless you have proper permission from that airport. Lastly, you should keep your drone below 400 feet and always within your line of sight. Again, always abide by the FAA regulations and err on the side of safety and caution.
Registration
Registration is required for when you are looking to put your drone in the air either as a recreational drone user or as a commercial one. We all know someone – or maybe we don’t – who is flying a drone without registration, but registration is required to fly legally. It’s not a good idea to skip this important protective step and all of the requirements that it has to pass to register. These are put into place for a good reason, after all.
Make sure that you always keep up to date on FAA rules and regulations, too, as this is where you are going to find out how, where, and when you can use your drone legally.
Local restrictions
Your local state or city is going to have various (constantly changing) rules and restrictions on when, where, and how you can fly your drone…. as well as who is around when you are doing so. So, you’l find it useful to always make sure that you are keeping up to date with those local rules and restrictions as they change and modify. These will help keep your flying safe, legal, and enjoyable for all involved.
Flying a drone is an experience like no other, and when you do it the “right” way, which involves being in the know, than it’ll be even better and a richer experience. Drones are here to stay, so it’s time to get to know all of the rules you’ll need to keep it a safe experience for everyone. Plus, again, safety and privacy are important as well as following the laws that are required of drone pilots. One bad seed can ruin it for everyone so don’t be that bad seed.
Drones of Prey is an FAA Exemption drone company so feel free to reach out to DOP to get your next project done the right way as it will save time and money in the long run.