Commercial drone operations in South Carolina are governed by federal FAA Part 107 rules, with state criminal restrictions for prison overflight and surveillance. Local governments cannot regulate flight or commercial operations.
Commercial drone operators must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 107, register the aircraft with the FAA, and operate within Part 107 limitations including 400-foot altitude ceiling, daylight or twilight, and visual line of sight unless a waiver is granted. South Carolina state criminal restrictions, including SC Code 24-3-965 (correctional facility flights) and SC Code 50-1-300 (hunter harassment), apply equally to commercial operators. Trespass and privacy tort claims under SC common law remain available. Local governments cannot regulate flight, frequency, or routing because federal law preempts airspace.
FAA enforcement may impose civil penalties up to $30,000 per violation. State misdemeanor penalties up to 30 days and $500 fine for prison overflight. Civil tort liability for trespass or invasion of privacy under SC common law.
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