FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required. Must be 16+, pass knowledge test, recertify every 24 months. No additional local drone permits.
FAA Part 107 governs all commercial UAS operations including real estate photography, construction surveys, and agricultural monitoring -- all common uses in the Oro Valley area. Remote Pilot Certificate requires passing a knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center (available in Tucson). Pilots must complete recurrent testing every 24 months. Operations over people are categorized into four risk categories based on drone weight and design. Night operations require anti-collision lighting visible for 3 statute miles. Operations in controlled airspace require LAANC authorization or FAA airspace waiver. ARS 13-3729 applies to commercial operators and prohibits using drones to intentionally photograph people on private property without consent. The Town does not require a local business license specifically for drone operations, but a general Oro Valley business license applies if the operator is based in town.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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