Alabama preempts local UAS regulation, leaving commercial drone operations governed by FAA Part 107 and state privacy statutes. Operators must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate and follow uniform statewide rules for surveys, photography, and inspections.
Under Code §4-3-100 et seq., counties and municipalities cannot license or restrict commercial drone operations. Commercial pilots fly under FAA 14 CFR Part 107: certified Remote Pilot, daylight or twilight (with anti-collision lights), 400-foot ceiling, 100-mph speed cap, visual line of sight or waiver. Alabama Code §13A-11-32.1 makes harassing surveillance with a UAS a misdemeanor, and §9-11-260 prohibits using drones to scout game animals. Operators near coastal facilities, military airspace, or critical infrastructure must coordinate with the FAA through LAANC or waiver processes.
Operating commercial drones without Part 107 certification or violating privacy statutes can result in FAA fines up to $32,666 per incident.
See how Lee County's commercial drones rules stack up against other locations.
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