Commercial Drones: Folsom vs Sacramento
How do commercial drones rules compare between Folsom, CA and Sacramento, CA?
Folsom and Sacramento have similar restriction levels.
Folsom, CA
Sacramento County
Commercial drone operators in Folsom must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and comply with 14 CFR Part 107. LAANC authorization is required in the Sacramento-area controlled airspace shelves, and flights over Folsom Lake SRA and city parks remain restricted without permit.
View full Folsom rules →Sacramento, CA
Sacramento County
Commercial drone operations in Sacramento require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and compliance with all federal and local regulations. Operators must obtain LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) authorization for flights in controlled airspace near Sacramento's airports. Commercial use in city parks or over city property requires additional permits from the relevant city department.
View full Sacramento rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Folsom | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | FAA Part 107 required | FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required |
| LAANC | Required in controlled airspace | - |
| Remote ID | Mandatory since Sept 2023 | - |
| Folsom Lake SRA | Special event permit needed | - |
| City Filming | Folsom Film Permit + insurance | - |
| Airspace | - | LAANC authorization needed near SMF, Mather, Executive |
| Altitude | - | 400 feet AGL maximum |
| Night Flying | - | Allowed with anti-collision lighting |
| City Permits | - | Required for operations over city property |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Folsom FAQ
Do I need a city permit to film in Folsom?
Yes. A Film Permit through Folsom Economic Development is required, along with proof of liability insurance.
Can I fly Part 107 at night?
Yes, with proper anti-collision lighting visible for 3 statute miles under the 2021 operations over people/night rule.
Sacramento FAQ
What do I need to fly a drone commercially in Sacramento?
You need an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, LAANC airspace authorization for flights near airports, and city permits for operations over city property or in parks.
Can I use a drone for real estate photography in Sacramento?
Yes, with a Part 107 certificate and proper airspace authorization. You must also comply with California privacy laws and not fly over neighboring properties in a way that invades privacy.
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