Commercial Drones: Gilbert vs Tempe
How do commercial drones rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Gilbert and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Commercial drone operations in Gilbert require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport airspace may require LAANC authorization. Arizona does not require additional state licensing for commercial drone operators. ARS 13-3729 restricts operations near critical facilities. Gilbert does not impose local drone permits beyond federal requirements.
View full Gilbert rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Commercial drone operations in Tempe are primarily regulated by the FAA under Part 107 rules. Operators need a Remote Pilot Certificate. Tempe is near Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, making much of the city fall within controlled airspace requiring LAANC authorization. Arizona law (ARS 13-3729) preempts most local drone regulation. The city cannot impose flight bans beyond federal law.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| License | FAA Part 107 required | - |
| Airspace | LAANC near Phoenix-Mesa Gateway | Near PHX - Class B, LAANC authorization needed |
| State License | No additional AZ license needed | - |
| Critical Facilities | ARS 13-3729 restrictions apply | - |
| Local Permit | No additional Gilbert permit | - |
| Federal Authority | - | FAA Part 107 governs commercial operations |
| Pilot License | - | Remote Pilot Certificate required |
| State Law | - | ARS 13-3729 preempts local drone regulation |
| Max Altitude | - | 400 ft AGL under Part 107 |
| TFRs | - | Active during major ASU sporting events |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gilbert FAQ
What do I need for commercial drone work in Gilbert?
FAA Part 107 certification and LAANC authorization for controlled airspace. Arizona does not require additional state drone licensing.
Does Gilbert require a local drone permit?
No. Gilbert does not require additional local permits for commercial drone operations beyond federal FAA requirements.
Tempe FAQ
Do I need a license to fly a commercial drone in Tempe?
Yes. You need an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107. Much of Tempe is in controlled airspace near PHX, requiring LAANC authorization.
Can Tempe ban drones?
No. Arizona law (ARS 13-3729) preempts local governments from regulating drone operations beyond federal law. The city cannot impose local drone bans.
What about flying near ASU?
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are active during major sporting events at ASU stadiums. Check NOTAMs before flying near Sun Devil Stadium.
Compare other topics
See how Gilbert and Tempe compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool