Commercial drone video rules for production projects.
Commercial drone footage is useful for showing scale, location, progress, and context, but it needs proper planning. Part 107 certification, airspace, permissions, weather, safety, and site logistics all affect whether a flight is possible.
Part 107 matters
Commercial drone operations in the United States generally fall under FAA Part 107. The FAA says the pilot must hold a Remote Pilot Certificate, and the drone must be registered. Applicants for the certificate must be at least 16 years old. WERZ is Part 107 certified for commercial drone work.
Airspace and site conditions matter
Some locations require authorization or may not be appropriate for drone flight. Weather, people, vehicles, airports, controlled airspace, and site rules all need review. The FAA's LAANC system gives drone pilots access to controlled airspace at or below 400 feet.
Plan the footage before flying
Aerial shots should have a job: show scale, reveal geography, document progress, establish a facility, or support a larger brand film.
Official sources
Common questions.
Can every project include drone footage?+
No. Flight depends on airspace, safety, permissions, weather, and site conditions.
What types of projects benefit from drone video?+
Solar, construction, real estate, agriculture, events, facilities, infrastructure, tourism, and brand films often benefit from aerial context.
Is drone footage enough by itself?+
Sometimes, but it is usually strongest when paired with ground cameras, interviews, photography, and a clear edit plan.
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Published by WERZ.
WERZ is a video production company based in Fresno, California. This guide is free to read, share and link to.