Alabama Commercial Drones Law: Statewide Drone Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Federal rule: 14 CFR Part 107
State preemption: Code §4-3-100
Pilot requirement: Remote Pilot Certificate
Altitude ceiling: 400 feet AGL
Surveillance statute: §13A-11-32.1

Full Breakdown

Under Code §4-3-100 et seq., counties and municipalities cannot license or restrict commercial drone operations. Commercial pilots fly under FAA 14 CFR Part 107: certified Remote Pilot, daylight or twilight (with anti-collision lights), 400-foot ceiling, 100-mph speed cap, visual line of sight or waiver. Alabama Code §13A-11-32.1 makes harassing surveillance with a UAS a misdemeanor, and §9-11-260 prohibits using drones to scout game animals. Operators near coastal facilities, military airspace, or critical infrastructure must coordinate with the FAA through LAANC or waiver processes.

Violations & Penalties

Operating commercial drones without Part 107 certification or violating privacy statutes can result in FAA fines up to $32,666 per incident.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Alabama commercial drone operators need a state license?

No. Alabama has no separate state commercial drone license. Operators rely on the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, which authorizes commercial UAS work statewide.

Can Alabama cities require commercial drone permits for filming?

Cities can regulate use of municipal land for filming logistics but cannot require local airspace permits, as Alabama law preempts municipal regulation of UAS operations.

Alabama Commercial Drone Operations Statewide Framework