Carson, CA Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Federal Aviation Regulations 14 CFR Part 107 are the controlling rule for any drone flight 'in furtherance of a business' (photography, surveying, real estate, inspection, delivery). Requirements: (1) Remote Pilot Certificate (FAA Part 107 written exam, recurrent training every 24 months); (2) drone registered through FAA DroneZone with N-number marked on airframe; (3) Remote ID broadcast module or built-in Remote ID (required since March 16, 2024); (4) operating limits per §107.51 — 400 ft AGL, 100 mph max groundspeed, 3 statute mile visibility, 500 ft below clouds, 2,000 ft horizontal from clouds; (5) LAANC authorization before any flight in Class B/C/D or Class E surface airspace — virtually all of Carson sits beneath the LAX Class B shelf. Operations Over People (Cat 1–4) and Operations Over Moving Vehicles require additional compliance. The Carson Municipal Code (eCode360 CA4377) contains no commercial UAS chapter, no local permit, and no insurance mandate, but a Carson business license is required for any business operating in city limits (CMC Article 6). Aerial inspection of refineries, port facilities, and pipelines may fall under FAA Critical Infrastructure restrictions and require facility owner coordination.