North Carolina Statewide Rule
North Carolina Commercial Drone Rules After State Permit Repeal
Key Facts
- State permit
- Repealed Dec. 1, 2024
- Repealing law
- S.L. 2024-15 (HB 198)
- FAA requirement
- Part 107 certificate
- Surveillance limits
- G.S. 15A-300.1
Summary
North Carolina repealed its state commercial drone operator permit and knowledge test effective December 1, 2024, so commercial pilots now need only the FAA Part 107 remote pilot certificate, though state surveillance and privacy limits still apply.
(a) No unmanned aircraft system may be launched or recovered from any State or private property without consent. (b) A unit of local government may adopt an ordinance to regulate the use of the local government's property for the launch or recovery of unmanned aircraft systems.
Full Breakdown
Until late 2024, G.S. 63-95 required commercial and government drone operators to pass an NCDOT knowledge test and hold a state UAS operator permit. Session Law 2024-15 (House Bill 198) repealed that requirement effective December 1, 2024, leaving the FAA Part 107 remote pilot certificate as the only operator credential for flying for hire in North Carolina. State law still prohibits using a drone to conduct surveillance of a person or private property without consent under G.S. 15A-300.1, and launching or recovering a drone from someone's property requires consent under G.S. 15A-300.2. Cities cannot license pilots or regulate flight, but may restrict takeoff and landing on government property.
Violations & Penalties
Flying commercially without a current FAA Part 107 certificate violates federal law, and unlawful drone surveillance can bring civil liability and criminal charges under G.S. 15A-300.1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a state permit to fly commercially in North Carolina if I have FAA Part 107?
Can NC cities require their own drone business licenses?
Sources
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.