Drone (UAS) Guidelines

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, are regulated in the United States by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These rules are designed to ensure the safety of the National Airspace System, protect people and property on the ground, and prevent conflicts with manned aircraft.

Drone operators must comply with federal, state, and local aviation regulations regardless of whether the drone is flown for recreation, business, or government purposes.

Drones Overview

A Drone or Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) consists of three components:

1. The unmanned aircraft (the drone)
2. The ground control station
3. The communication link between the operator and aircraft

Most FAA regulations apply to small UAS, defined as drones weighing less than 55 pounds.

Drone flights in the United States fall into three primary regulatory categories:

1. Recreational Flying
2. Commercial Operations
3. Government Operations

Recreational Flying is for a hobby or personal enjoyment. Commercial and Government Operations can include business, photography services, inspections, mapping, and public safety operations. 

Rules, Regulations, and Legal Requirements

Requirements for Recreational Flying include:

• Pass the TRUST (Recreational UAS Safety Test)
• Register drones weighing 0.55 lbs (250 g) or more
• Follow FAA safety guidelines and community-based organization rules
• Keep proof of TRUST completion while flying 

Commercial and Government Operations require a remote pilot certification and must follow FAA Part 107 regulations.

To operate under Part 107, a pilot must:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test
• Obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate with Small UAS Rating
• Pass a TSA security background check
• Complete recurrent training every 24 months 

Part 107 allows drones to be used for commercial activities such as:

• Infrastructure inspections
• Real estate photography
• Mapping and surveying
• Public safety operations
• Agricultural monitoring

Registration with the FAA is required if the drone weighs 0.55 lbs (250 g) to 55 lbs or is used for recreation or commercial operations. Failure to register a required drone can result in civil penalties and fines.

To register:

1. Register through the FAA DroneZone website
2. Pay the registration fee
3. Receive a unique registration number
4. Place the number on the drone exterior
5. Carry proof of registration when flying 

All drones must broadcast Remote Identification (Remote ID) information during flight. Remote ID acts like a digital license plate for drones and broadcasts and allows authorities to identify drones operating in the airspace.

Required remote ID information includes:

• Drone identification number
• Location
• Altitude
• Velocity
• Control station location

General Drone Operating Rules

Regardless of whether flying recreationally or under Part 107, several core safety rules apply.

Drone pilots must:

• Maintain visual line-of-sight with the aircraft
• Fly at or below 400 feet above ground level
• Yield right-of-way to all manned aircraft
• Maintain at least 3 miles of visibility
• Avoid flying over people unless authorized
• Avoid operating from a moving vehicle in populated areas
• Not operate drones carelessly or recklessly 
• Obtain authorization to fly in controlled airspace

Maximum drone speed allowed under Part 107 is 100 mph (87 knots). 

Penalties for Illegal Drone Operations

Violations may result in:

• FAA fines up to $27,500
• Certificate suspention
• Criminal or misdemeanor chargers
• Up to 12 months imprisonment

Best Practices in Georgia

To fly a drone legally and safely in Georgia:

1. Register your drone with the FAA
2. Obtain TRUST certification (recreational) or Part 107 license (commercial)
3. Check airspace using B4UFLY or LAANC
4. Avoid flying near:
   1. Airports
   2. Prisons
   3. Major ticketed and stadium events
   4. Emergency scenes
5. Always maintain visual line of sight
6. Stay below 400 feet