Commercial Drones: Clovis vs Selma
How do commercial drones rules compare between Clovis, CA and Selma, CA?
Selma has fewer restrictions than Clovis.
Clovis, CA
Fresno County
Commercial drone operators need FAA Part 107 certification. Clovis does not preempt federal airspace rules but restricts takeoff/landing in city parks and over sensitive city events without a film/special event permit.
View full Clovis rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma has no local commercial drone regulations. Operators must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and may need LAANC authorization near Fresno Yosemite International Airport.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clovis | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| Federal | FAA Part 107 | - |
| Airspace | LAANC may apply | - |
| Park Takeoff | Permit required | - |
| Film Permit | City events/property | - |
| FAA Fine | Up to $32,666 | - |
| Local Drone Law | - | None adopted |
| Federal Authority | - | FAA Part 107 |
| Pilot Certificate | - | Remote Pilot Certificate required |
| Ag Drone Use | - | Common in area, DPR rules apply |
| Business License | - | Standard SMC Title 5 license |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clovis FAQ
Do I need city permission to fly commercially over private property?
No, federal law preempts city regulation of airspace itself. But you need Part 107 certification, FAA airspace authorization, and property owner consent for takeoff/landing sites.
Does Clovis require a film permit for drone photography?
Yes for commercial filming on city property or at city-organized events. Operators still need FAA Part 107 certification, and LAANC authorization may apply near Fresno Chandler or Fresno Yosemite airspace.
How much is the FAA fine for flying a commercial drone without Part 107?
Up to $32,666 per violation. Anyone flying a drone for business purposes — real estate photos, inspections, wedding video — in Clovis must hold a valid Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Selma FAQ
Do I need a local permit to fly a commercial drone in Selma?
No local drone permit is required. You must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and comply with federal airspace rules. A standard city business license under SMC Title 5 is needed for any business operating in Selma.
Can I use drones for agriculture in Selma?
Yes. Agricultural drone operations are common in the Central Valley. You must comply with FAA Part 107 and California Department of Pesticide Regulation requirements for any aerial applications.
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