San Bernardino, CA Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Commercial operations in San Bernardino, including real estate photography, construction inspection, film and event coverage, and delivery, are governed by FAA 14 CFR Part 107. Pilots must pass the initial aeronautical knowledge test at an approved testing center and renew every 24 months with an online training. All drones used commercially must be registered with the FAA, display the registration number, and broadcast Remote ID via built-in capability or an approved module. Operations require flying within visual line of sight, below 400 feet, during daylight or civil twilight with anti-collision lighting for night flights authorized under Part 107.29, and not over people or moving vehicles unless operating under Category 1 through 4 of Part 107.39. The airspace around San Bernardino International Airport is Class D and requires LAANC authorization through apps like Aloft. Flights near Ontario International Airport, March Air Reserve Base, and the military restricted zones in Twentynine Palms further east require careful airspace planning. Liability insurance of at least 1 to 5 million dollars is the industry norm and often required by clients and city film permits. Filming on city property triggers the San Bernardino Film Permit process administered through the City Clerk, with additional requirements for crew, parking, and indemnification. State laws including Civil Code 1708.8, Penal Code 402 (interference with emergency responders), and Vehicle Code 21701 (avoiding traffic interference) apply.