Commercial drone work in Norfolk runs on FAA 14 CFR Part 107: hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, register the aircraft, fly under 400 feet, and keep visual line of sight. Virginia Code § 15.2-926.3 blocks Norfolk from adding its own drone license.
Any drone flight for business in Norfolk, from waterfront and real-estate photography to roof and pier inspections, falls under FAA 14 CFR Part 107. Section 107.12 requires the person at the controls to hold a Remote Pilot Certificate with a small UAS rating, or fly under the direct supervision of one. Operators register the aircraft, stay below 400 feet, and keep visual line of sight. Norfolk's dense military and civil airspace, anchored by Naval Station Norfolk, Chambers Field, and Norfolk International Airport, means most commercial flights need LAANC authorization before takeoff. Virginia Code § 15.2-926.3 preempts a separate city drone license, though the city may still control launch and landing from public property.
The FAA enforces Part 107 with civil penalties reaching tens of thousands of dollars for flying without a Remote Pilot Certificate or entering controlled airspace unauthorized. Norfolk issues no drone license and only restricts launch and landing from public land.
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