Boulder City, NV Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Commercial drone operation — including real estate photography, construction surveying, news gathering, and any flight for compensation or business — in Boulder City is primarily governed by 14 CFR Part 107 administered by the FAA. Commercial operators must hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, register their UAS, maintain altitude under 400 feet AGL (with exceptions for higher altitudes within 400 ft of a structure), maintain visual line of sight or obtain a waiver, and comply with airspace authorizations through LAANC or other FAA processes. Boulder City Airport (KBVU) imposes controlled airspace requirements in parts of the city; LAANC authorization is typically required in Class E controlled segments. Lake Mead National Recreation Area prohibits commercial drone flight under 36 CFR 1.5 and requires a Special Use Permit through the National Park Service if a commercial flight is proposed over federal land — these permits are rarely granted for routine work. Hoover Dam airspace is subject to additional federal security restrictions administered by the Bureau of Reclamation and Department of Homeland Security. Boulder City may require a business license for commercial drone services based in the city. Private property flight for commercial purposes requires owner permission. Commercial operators must carry liability insurance at the recommendation of most clients even if not legally mandated.