Sonoma, CA Drone Rules: Commercial Drones (2026)

Federal framework: Any non-recreational drone operation (paid work, business use, real-estate photos, surveys, deliveries) is governed by 14 CFR Part 107. The remote pilot must (1) be at least 16 years old, (2) hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA after passing the aeronautical knowledge test, (3) register each drone (14 CFR §47.3), (4) operate within visual line of sight, (5) stay at or below 400 ft AGL, (6) not fly over people or moving vehicles without an approved category waiver, and (7) operate only in Class G airspace or with prior ATC/LAANC authorization. Operations over people, at night, or beyond visual line of sight require a waiver under 14 CFR §107.200. Local framework: The City of Sonoma's drone ordinance, unanimously adopted by the City Council on July 16, 2025, applies to commercial operators as well. Operators must maintain visual line of sight, keep ≥25 ft from non-crew people without consent, obtain landowner permission for takeoff/landing on private property, and observe local buffers (100 ft from schools, 500 ft from certain government facilities, 500 ft from emergency incidents, 1,500 ft horizontal from other aircraft). Festivals, parades, and other crowded city events require advance approval. Commercial filming with a drone on city-controlled property requires a separate film permit issued by the City of Sonoma.