Commercial Drones: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do commercial drones rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Commercial drone operations in Long Beach require FAA Part 107 certification and LAANC authorization. Port of Long Beach requires a separate permit. CA Civil Code §1708.8 imposes privacy penalties up to $5,000 per incident.
View full Long Beach 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 | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| FAA Part 107 | Required for commercial use | - |
| LAANC | Required in controlled airspace | - |
| Privacy Law | CA Civil Code §1708.8, up to $5,000 | - |
| Port Permit | Required for Port of LB operations | - |
| 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.
Long Beach 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 Long Beach 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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