Commercial Drones: Downey vs Los Angeles
How do commercial drones rules compare between Downey, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Downey and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Commercial drone operations require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. No additional Downey-specific permits are required. Operators must follow all FAA airspace restrictions and obtain waivers for restricted areas.
View full Downey rules βLos Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Commercial drone operators in LA must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. LAMC 56.31 defines Civil UAS as any drone operated for non-recreational purposes. Commercial operators need FilmLA permits for aerial filming in public spaces. Additional city and FAA waivers may be needed for operations over people, at night, or in controlled airspace near LA airports.
View full Los Angeles rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| License | FAA Part 107 required | - |
| Local Permit | Not required | - |
| Airspace | Check for restrictions near airports | - |
| Insurance | Recommended for commercial use | - |
| FAA License | - | Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required |
| Filming | - | FilmLA permit needed for public spaces |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 56.31 |
| Waivers | - | Needed for night, over people, near airports |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downey FAQ
What license do I need?
An FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate obtained by passing an aeronautical knowledge test.
Can I fly for real estate photos?
Yes, with Part 107 certification. Check Downey for any additional filming permit requirements.
Los Angeles FAQ
What license do I need?
An FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate obtained by passing an aeronautical knowledge test.
Can I fly for real estate photos?
Yes, with Part 107 certification. Check Los Angeles for any additional filming permit requirements.
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