Redmond, WA Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Commercial drone operations, including photography, real estate imaging, inspections, deliveries, and surveying in Redmond fall under FAA Part 107 regulations in 14 CFR Part 107. Key requirements: the Remote Pilot in Command must hold a valid Part 107 certificate obtained by passing the Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center; the aircraft must be registered with the FAA (different registration process than recreational, $5 per aircraft, 3-year term); operations must remain below 400 feet AGL, within visual line of sight, during daylight or civil twilight (night operations require additional anti-collision lighting), away from people not participating (Category 1-4 rules under 14 CFR 107.39); flights in controlled airspace require authorization via LAANC or DroneZone. Much of Redmond falls beneath Seattle Class B airspace with ceiling variations. Liability insurance is not federally required but is standard industry practice and may be required by clients. Redmond RMC 12.20 prohibits launch and landing in city parks without permit, affecting commercial photographers. Commercial operations involving individuals on private property require consent under state privacy law RCW 9.73. Deliveries are subject to additional FAA Part 135 air carrier requirements.