Commercial Drones: Bloomington vs Minneapolis
How do commercial drones rules compare between Bloomington, MN and Minneapolis, MN?
Bloomington and Minneapolis have similar restriction levels.
Bloomington, MN
Hennepin County
Commercial drone operators in Minnesota must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and register their aircraft with both the FAA and the Minnesota DOT Office of Aeronautics under Minn. Stat. 360.55, paying state aircraft registration tax annually.
View full Bloomington rules →Minneapolis, MN
Hennepin County
Commercial drone work in Minneapolis requires an FAA Part 107 certificate, LAANC authorization for MSP Class B airspace, and MPRB permits for Park Board property operations.
View full Minneapolis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bloomington | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| State registration | Required annually | - |
| Pilot certificate | FAA Part 107 | - |
| State tax basis | Aircraft value | - |
| Statute | Minn. Stat. 360.55 | - |
| Pilot Certificate | - | FAA Part 107 |
| Airspace | - | LAANC for MSP Class B |
| Altitude Limit | - | 400 ft AGL |
| Parks | - | MPRB permit |
| Film Permits | - | For street closures |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bloomington FAQ
Does Minnesota require state registration of commercial drones?
Yes. Under Minn. Stat. 360.55, commercial UAS must be registered annually with the MnDOT Office of Aeronautics in addition to FAA registration, with tax based on aircraft value.
What pilot credentials do commercial drone operators need?
An FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, plus compliance with all Part 107 operating limits. Special waivers are required for night, beyond-line-of-sight, or operations over people.
Minneapolis FAQ
Can I do real estate drone photos in Minneapolis?
Yes with a Part 107 certificate and LAANC authorization. Many neighborhoods are in Class B airspace.
Do I need insurance?
Not by federal mandate, but clients and the Park Board often require it.
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