Commercial Drones: Goodyear vs Scottsdale
How do commercial drones rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Goodyear and Scottsdale have similar restriction levels.
Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
Commercial drone operations in Goodyear require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Arizona ARS §13-3729 preempts local drone regulation. Goodyear's proximity to Phoenix Goodyear Airport (GYR) and Luke Air Force Base makes airspace authorization critical for commercial operations. Part 107 waivers may be needed for operations beyond standard limitations.
View full Goodyear rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Commercial drone operations in Scottsdale are primarily regulated by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 107. Scottsdale requires permits for drone use on city property and near special events. Operations near Scottsdale Airport (SDL) require FAA authorization through LAANC or a Part 107 waiver.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| FAA Requirement | Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate | Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required |
| Airspace | LAANC authorization near GYR | - |
| State Law | ARS §13-3729 preempts local rules | ARS §13-3729 (critical infrastructure), ARS §13-3007 (surveillance) |
| Privacy | No surveillance — ARS §13-3007 | - |
| Penalty | Up to $32,666 per FAA violation | - |
| Airport | - | Scottsdale Airport (SDL) - controlled airspace |
| Airspace Authorization | - | LAANC or Part 107 waiver required near SDL |
| City Parks | - | Permit required for commercial drone use |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Goodyear FAQ
What license do I need for commercial drone work in Goodyear?
You need an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test and register your drone with the FAA. No separate city drone permit is required due to Arizona's state preemption.
Can I do commercial drone photography in Goodyear?
Yes, with a Part 107 certificate and proper airspace authorization. Much of Goodyear is near GYR or Luke AFB airspace, so LAANC authorization or tower coordination is typically required. Do not photograph private property in a way that constitutes surveillance.
Do I need a Goodyear business license for drone operations?
There is no drone-specific city license, but general business license requirements may apply if you operate a business in Goodyear. Contact the City Clerk's office for business license information.
Scottsdale FAQ
Do I need permission to fly a commercial drone in Scottsdale?
Yes. You need an FAA Part 107 certificate, LAANC authorization if near Scottsdale Airport, and a city permit for operations on city property including parks.
Can I fly a drone over Scottsdale events?
Only with FAA authorization and event organizer permission. Many major Scottsdale events have temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) in effect.
Are drones allowed in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve?
Commercial drone use in the Preserve requires a permit and is subject to restrictions to protect wildlife and the visitor experience.
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