Commercial Drones: San Mateo vs South San Francisco
How do commercial drones rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
San Mateo has fewer restrictions than South San Francisco.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
Commercial drone operations in San Mateo require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and may need LAANC authorization for flights in SFO's Class B airspace. The city may require filming permits for commercial drone photography on city property.
View full San Mateo rules →South San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
Commercial drone operations in unincorporated San Mateo County require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (14 CFR Part 107), LAANC authorization for controlled airspace (most of the Peninsula falls within SFO Class B), and coordination with affected airports (SQL, HAF, PAO, SFO). San Mateo County Parks prohibit commercial drone use; filming permits may be obtainable for specific projects via County Film Commission coordination. Commercial filming in the Coastal Zone may require a Coastal Development Permit.
View full South San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Mateo | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate | FAA Part 107 required | - |
| Airspace | SFO Class B — LAANC needed | SFO Class B dominant |
| Max Altitude | 400 ft AGL | - |
| Filming Permit | May be needed on city property | - |
| Weight Limit | 55 lbs maximum | - |
| Certification | - | FAA Part 107 required |
| Recurrent | - | 24-month renewal |
| Film Permit | - | Required on County property |
| Night/Over-People | - | FAA waiver needed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Mateo FAQ
What do I need for commercial drone work in San Mateo?
An FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and LAANC authorization for flights in SFO's Class B airspace. A city filming permit may be needed for work on city property.
Can I do real estate drone photography in San Mateo?
Yes, with a Part 107 certificate and LAANC authorization. The area's proximity to SFO means airspace authorization is essential for most locations.
What are the penalties for unauthorized commercial drone flights?
FAA civil penalties can reach $32,666 per violation. Unauthorized flights in SFO's Class B airspace carry severe penalties.
South San Francisco FAQ
Can I fly commercially in San Mateo County Parks with a permit?
The Parks Department does allow filming with an approved Film Permit that may include drone use, evaluated case-by-case. Commercial recreational operations are generally denied. Apply through the San Mateo County Film Office at least 30 days in advance.
Does the County require separate commercial drone registration?
No. San Mateo County has no separate drone licensing beyond federal Part 107. However, commercial filming, surveying, or real estate photography on County property requires a Film or Right-of-Way Permit from Public Works or Planning & Building.
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