Drone FAQs

To fly a drone recreationally, you must pass the TRUST (Recreational UAS Safety Test) and register your drone if it weighs 0.55 lbs (250 g) or more. While flying, make sure to follow FAA safety guidelines and community-based organization rules and keep proof of your TRUST completion. 
 

If you are flying commercially or for government operations, you have to follow Part 107 guidelines and obtain a Remote Pilot Certification. Visit www.faa.gov/uas/commercial_operators for more information. 

All drones that weigh between 0.55 lbs to 55 lbs have to be registered through the FAA DroneZone website.

Drones are commonly restricted in areas such as airports, military bases, national parks, critical infrastructure, emergency response scenes, stadium events and wildfire response areas. 

Before each flight, check airspace conditions using tools such as B4UFLY, LAANC, FAA TFR listings and NOTAM alerts (Notices to Airmen).

The FAA allows operators to request waivers for certain operational limitations including night operations, flights over people, beyond visual line-of-sight and operations from moving vehicles. Waiver requests are submitted through the FAA Aviation Safety Hub and must demonstrate an equivalent level of safety.

Georgia law (HB 58) prohibits drone flights within 400 feet of a ticketed entertainment event. The restriction applies unless the drone operator has official authorization from event organizers or authorities. 

Drones are legally classified as aircraft under federal law and cannot be shot down. If you see a drone operating illegally, contact your local law enforcement or the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).

Different areas in Atlanta have different flight restrictions. Drone operations are restricted near ATL airport and are prohibited near stadiums during events. Authorization is required in Downtown Atlanta, Midtown and Buckhead. Flights are usually unrestricted below 400 ft in outer suburbs.