Commercial Drones: Daly City vs San Mateo
How do commercial drones rules compare between Daly City, CA and San Mateo, CA?
San Mateo has fewer restrictions than Daly City.
Daly City, CA
San Mateo County
Commercial drone operations in unincorporated San Mateo County require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (14 CFR Part 107), LAANC authorization for controlled airspace (most of the Peninsula falls within SFO Class B), and coordination with affected airports (SQL, HAF, PAO, SFO). San Mateo County Parks prohibit commercial drone use; filming permits may be obtainable for specific projects via County Film Commission coordination. Commercial filming in the Coastal Zone may require a Coastal Development Permit.
View full Daly City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
Commercial drone operations in San Mateo require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and may need LAANC authorization for flights in SFO's Class B airspace. The city may require filming permits for commercial drone photography on city property.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Daly City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | FAA Part 107 required | - |
| Recurrent | 24-month renewal | - |
| Airspace | SFO Class B dominant | SFO Class B — LAANC needed |
| Film Permit | Required on County property | - |
| Night/Over-People | FAA waiver needed | - |
| Certificate | - | FAA Part 107 required |
| Max Altitude | - | 400 ft AGL |
| Filming Permit | - | May be needed on city property |
| Weight Limit | - | 55 lbs maximum |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Daly City FAQ
Can I fly commercially in San Mateo County Parks with a permit?
The Parks Department does allow filming with an approved Film Permit that may include drone use, evaluated case-by-case. Commercial recreational operations are generally denied. Apply through the San Mateo County Film Office at least 30 days in advance.
Does the County require separate commercial drone registration?
No. San Mateo County has no separate drone licensing beyond federal Part 107. However, commercial filming, surveying, or real estate photography on County property requires a Film or Right-of-Way Permit from Public Works or Planning & Building.
San Mateo FAQ
What do I need for commercial drone work in San Mateo?
An FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and LAANC authorization for flights in SFO's Class B airspace. A city filming permit may be needed for work on city property.
Can I do real estate drone photography in San Mateo?
Yes, with a Part 107 certificate and LAANC authorization. The area's proximity to SFO means airspace authorization is essential for most locations.
What are the penalties for unauthorized commercial drone flights?
FAA civil penalties can reach $32,666 per violation. Unauthorized flights in SFO's Class B airspace carry severe penalties.
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