Commercial drone operations in Tucson require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Operators must comply with all FAA regulations including airspace restrictions around Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and Tucson International Airport. Arizona state law preempts most local commercial drone regulations, but operators may need city permits for filming on city property.
Part 107 pilots must pass an aeronautical knowledge test and maintain their certificate with recurrent testing every 24 months. Commercial operations in controlled airspace near Tucson's airports require LAANC or specific FAA authorization. Flights over people and at night are permitted under updated Part 107 rules with appropriate equipment. Real estate photography, surveying, inspections, and delivery are common commercial applications in Tucson.
Operating commercially without a Part 107 certificate carries FAA civil penalties up to $27,500 per violation. Operating in restricted airspace without authorization can result in criminal charges.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pima County.
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