Commercial Drones: Berkeley vs Oakland
How do commercial drones rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Oakland, CA?
Oakland has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Commercial drone flights in Berkeley require a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 107, plus any needed LAANC authorization for controlled airspace and City permits for park or event use.
View full Berkeley rules →Oakland, CA
Alameda County
Commercial drone operations in Oakland require FAA Part 107 certification and LAANC authorization for flights in controlled airspace near Oakland International Airport. Oakland's privacy-conscious policies affect commercial drone use.
View full Oakland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Oakland |
|---|---|---|
| FAA rule | 14 CFR Part 107 | - |
| Certificate | Remote Pilot required | - |
| LAANC | Needed for controlled airspace | - |
| City permit | For parks or public property | - |
| Insurance | Usually $1M liability | - |
| License | - | FAA Part 107 required |
| Airspace | - | LAANC required near OAK |
| Film Permits | - | May be required from Film Office |
| Privacy | - | Oakland Privacy Commission active |
| FAA Penalty | - | Up to $55,000 per violation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can I do real estate drone photography in Berkeley?
Yes, with a Part 107 certificate, LAANC authorization if needed, and property owner permission. No FAA license equals illegal commercial flight.
Do I need a City permit for a commercial shoot?
If you operate from or over City property you generally need a film or special-event permit with insurance.
Oakland FAQ
What do I need for commercial drone work in Oakland?
FAA Part 107 certification, LAANC authorization for controlled airspace near OAK, and potentially a film permit from the Oakland Film Office for commercial videography.
Are there special privacy rules?
Oakland's Privacy Advisory Commission is active on surveillance technology issues. Commercial operators should be mindful of privacy expectations when flying over residential areas.
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