Commercial Drones: Columbus vs Westerville
How do commercial drones rules compare between Columbus, OH and Westerville, OH?
Columbus and Westerville have similar restriction levels.
Columbus, OH
Franklin County
Commercial drone operations in Columbus require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Ohio law permits commercial drone use for agriculture, real estate, surveying, and other purposes. Commercial operators near John Glenn Columbus International Airport must obtain LAANC authorization. The city does not require an additional local drone permit for commercial operations.
View full Columbus rules →Westerville, OH
Franklin County
Commercial drone operations in Westerville require FAA Part 107 certification. Operators must obtain LAANC authorization for flights in CMH Class C airspace covering southern portions of the city. City park launch requires a Parks Department permit.
View full Westerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Columbus | Westerville |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate | - |
| Altitude | 400 feet AGL maximum | - |
| Night Operations | Allowed with anti-collision lighting | - |
| Local Permit | Not required by Columbus | - |
| Airport Proximity | LAANC authorization required | - |
| FAA Part 107 | - | Required commercial |
| LAANC | - | CMH Class C |
| Insurance | - | Recommended not required |
| City Property | - | Parks permit |
| Remote ID | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Columbus FAQ
Do I need a license to fly a drone commercially in Columbus?
Yes. You must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, which requires passing a knowledge test. Columbus does not require an additional local drone permit for commercial operations.
Can I fly a drone for real estate photography in Columbus?
Yes. Real estate photography by drone is a commercial use requiring a Part 107 certificate. You must fly below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and obtain LAANC authorization if near John Glenn Columbus International Airport.
Westerville FAQ
Who enforces this in Westerville?
Westerville code enforcement at (614) 901-6400 handles complaints.
Who enforces this in Westerville?
Westerville code enforcement at (614) 901-6400 handles complaints.
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