Commercial Drones: Lakewood vs Los Angeles
How do commercial drones rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Los Angeles has fewer restrictions than Lakewood.
Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Lakewood commercial drone operators must hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA. Additional local permits may be required for filming or surveying.
View full Lakewood rules →Los 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 →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| License | FAA Part 107 required | - |
| Renewal | Every 24 months | - |
| Controlled Airspace | LAANC authorization needed | - |
| Business Permit | May be required locally | - |
| 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.
Lakewood 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 Lakewood 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.
Compare other topics
See how Lakewood and Los Angeles 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