FAA Drone Rules for Commercial Use

If you are using a drone for anything other than pure recreational enjoyment, you are operating under FAA commercial rules (Part 107).

What Counts as Commercial Use?

Commercial use includes any flight that is not purely recreational at the time of flight.

• Paid drone work
• Roof or property inspections
• Real estate photography
• Construction documentation
• Any flight that benefits a business

Important: You do NOT need to be paid for it to be considered commercial.

Because of this, many businesses choose to work with a licensed drone operator rather than dealing with certification and compliance themselves.

Requirements

• Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Drone registration with the FAA
• Compliance with FAA operational rules

Key Rules

• Maximum altitude: 400 feet
• Maintain visual line of sight
• Do not fly recklessly
• Obtain airspace authorization when required

Why This Matters

Operating commercially without proper certification can lead to fines, liability issues, and insurance complications.