Commercial Drones: Mountain View vs Palo Alto
How do commercial drones rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Palo Alto, CA?
Palo Alto has fewer restrictions than Mountain View.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Commercial drone operation in Mountain View requires FAA Part 107 certification and LAANC airspace authorization. Moffett Field creates controlled airspace over most of the city.
View full Mountain View rules →Palo Alto, CA
Santa Clara County
Commercial drone operators in Palo Alto must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certificate, register the aircraft, comply with Remote ID, and obtain airspace authorization near Palo Alto Airport Class D airspace.
View full Palo Alto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Palo Alto |
|---|---|---|
| Federal rule | 14 CFR Part 107 | - |
| Pilot certificate | Remote Pilot required | - |
| Airspace authorization | LAANC for controlled airspace | - |
| Remote ID | Mandatory broadcast | Required |
| City permit | Takeoff/landing on city land, filming | - |
| Certification | - | FAA Part 107 required |
| Airspace | - | PAO Class D - LAANC needed |
| Max altitude | - | 400 feet AGL |
| City property | - | Permit required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Do I need a City of Mountain View permit to fly commercially?
Only if you launch, land, or film on city property or in a park. Flights over private property with the owner's permission fall under FAA rules.
How do I get LAANC authorization?
Use an FAA-approved LAANC provider such as Aloft, AirMap, or Skyward to request near-real-time authorization for controlled airspace.
Palo Alto FAQ
What certification do I need for commercial drone work?
An FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certificate is required for any commercial drone operation, including paid photography and inspections.
Do I need permission to fly near Palo Alto Airport?
Yes. PAO has Class D airspace; commercial pilots must obtain authorization through LAANC before operating in that area.
Can I film commercially from a park?
You need a permit from Community Services or the Airport, and commercial film projects may require a separate city film permit.
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