Commercial Drones: Colorado Springs vs Manitou Springs
How do commercial drones rules compare between Colorado Springs, CO and Manitou Springs, CO?
Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs have similar restriction levels.
Colorado Springs, CO
El Paso County
Commercial drone operations in Colorado Springs require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and are subject to the same extensive military airspace restrictions as recreational flights. Operators must obtain LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) authorization or FAA waivers to fly in controlled airspace, which covers much of the city due to Peterson Space Force Base and other military facilities. Commercial operators must also carry liability insurance and comply with any applicable city permitting requirements for filming or commercial activities in public spaces.
View full Colorado Springs rules →Manitou Springs, CO
El Paso County
Commercial drone operators in El Paso County need FAA Part 107 certification plus LAANC for Colorado Springs Airport Class D airspace. Military-airspace waivers essentially unobtainable for recreational filming near USAFA, Peterson, Schriever, or Fort Carson. Garden of the Gods commercial filming permits required.
View full Manitou Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Colorado Springs | Manitou Springs |
|---|---|---|
| FAA License | Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required | - |
| Airspace Auth | LAANC or FAA waiver for controlled airspace | - |
| Military Zones | Restricted airspace over multiple bases | - |
| Insurance | Liability insurance recommended/required | - |
| City Permits | May need filming or commercial activity permits | - |
| License | - | FAA Part 107 required |
| COS LAANC | - | Required Class D |
| Military | - | R-2601 essentially closed |
| CS Parks | - | Film permit $250-$1,500 |
| Renewal | - | Every 24 months |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Colorado Springs FAQ
What do I need to fly a commercial drone in Colorado Springs?
You need an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, LAANC authorization or an FAA waiver for controlled airspace (which covers much of the city), and potentially a city filming permit for commercial operations in public areas.
Is it harder to fly commercial drones in Colorado Springs than other cities?
Yes. The concentration of military installations creates extensive controlled and restricted airspace that limits where commercial drones can operate. Obtaining airspace authorization can be more complex than in cities without military bases.
Manitou Springs FAQ
Can I shoot real estate drone footage in Colorado Springs?
Yes with Part 107 certification and LAANC for Class D airspace near COS Airport. Avoid USAFA proximity (R-2601). Residential real estate is the most common commercial drone use in the region and generally straightforward outside military buffers.
Do I need a permit to film commercially at Pikes Peak?
Yes. Pikes Peak – America's Mountain (operated by Colorado Springs Utilities) requires a commercial filming permit with fees, insurance, and scheduling. Summit drone launches are prohibited; filming from below summit requires coordination with Pikes Peak rangers.
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