Livonia, MI Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Commercial UAS operations in Livonia, including real estate photography, roof inspections, construction progress mapping, and videography, require compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 107. Remote pilots must hold a valid Part 107 certificate, register the aircraft, operate below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and obtain LAANC authorization for controlled airspace around Detroit Metropolitan Airport and Willow Run Airport, which covers most of Livonia. Night operations, flight over people, and operations from a moving vehicle require the applicable anti-collision lighting or waivers per Part 107.39, 107.41, and 107.51. Michigan law (PA 436 of 2016) preempts local airspace rules but permits Livonia to control ground activity, so launching or landing from any city-owned property, including parks, school properties, and municipal lots, requires written authorization from the Parks and Recreation Department or, for events, from the Livonia Police special events unit. Insurance naming the City of Livonia as additional insured is typically required. Violations of FAA rules can be pursued federally, while trespass and nuisance claims are handled by Livonia Police.