Make Sure You Know and Follow the Rules When You Get a New Drone
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Make Sure You Know and Follow the Rules When You Get a New Drone

The rules and drone registration requirement is designed to minimize potential risks to other aircraft, people, and property

August 7, 2025

Drones, also called unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), are more affordable and capable than ever, from hobbyist quadcopters to professional inspection rigs. But every drone in the national airspace must comply with federal rules designed to keep people, property and manned aircraft safe. Whether you are unboxing your first drone or training for commercial operations, understanding registration, Remote ID, airspace restrictions and state specific guidelines ensures you fly legally and responsibly.

Federal Registration Requirements

Since 2016 the Federal Aviation Administration has required most drone owners to register in the FAA’s DroneZone portal before flight. Registration is open to anyone 13 or older for $5 and covers all drones you own for three years. You provide your name, mailing and physical address, and email; the system issues a registration number that must be clearly marked on each UAS.

In December 2023 the FAA’s Remote Identification Rule went into full effect. All drones flying beyond visual line of sight or within controlled airspace must broadcast identification, location and altitude via a Remote ID module or have built-in broadcast capability. This “digital license plate” helps authorities and other airspace users identify drones in real time. Hobbyists flying purely for fun under 400 feet and not over people may use FAA recognized identification areas (FRIAs) without Remote ID equipment.

Recreational Flying Rules

Recreational pilots must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), available online at no cost. TRUST covers basic aeronautical knowledge: airspace classes, weather, privacy and safety. Upon passing, you receive a certificate that you should carry when flying.

  • Fly below 400 feet and within visual line of sight.
  • Stay at least 5 miles from airports unless you obtain low altitude authorization through LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) via approved apps.
  • Do not fly over people, moving vehicles or stadiums during events.
  • Respect Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) around wildfires, disaster areas or VIP movements. Check apps like FAA DroneZone or Airmap before each flight.
  • Never operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Commercial Operations Under Part 107

Commercial drone pilots, those flying for work, business or research, must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate under FAA Part 107. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test at an approved testing center and undergo TSA security vetting. Certified pilots comply with additional rules:

  • Maximum groundspeed of 100 mph.
  • Daylight operations only, or civil twilight with anti collision lighting.
  • Maintain a minimum of 3 statute miles visibility and 500 feet below clouds.
  • Yield right of way to manned aircraft and avoid flying over non participating people.
  • Records of maintenance, preflight checklists and total flight time must be logged.

North Carolina Specific Guidelines

North Carolina does not impose additional state drone registration, but several agencies have rules for sensitive areas:

  • Coastal and wetlands areas: Drone flights over state parks and Wildlife Resource Commission lands may require permits; contact the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
  • Emergency response incidents: During hurricanes, wildfires or search and rescue missions, the NC Emergency Operations Center issues temporary flight restrictions. Check the NC Emergency Management website or call 919 814 6300 before flying near active incidents.
  • NC State University Test Ranges: Research partners at NC State’s UAS Test Site operate dedicated corridors; commercial pilots can apply for access via the NC DronePort at Kinston.

Addressing Near Misses and Safety Concerns

Between 2021 and 2024 the FAA documented over 600 close calls between drones and manned aircraft. Even small drones can damage rotorcraft blades or penetrate jet engine inlet fans. Always perform a preflight check, inspect propellers, batteries, GPS lock status and signal strength. Maintain at least 5 miles of horizontal separation from airports unless authorized.

Basic Safe Flight Practices

  • Fly only in good weather, avoiding high winds, rain and low visibility.
  • Keep drones at least 30 feet away from vehicles, buildings and wildlife to prevent collisions and disturbances.
  • Do not attach dangerous payloads or weapons, this is strictly prohibited and may incur federal penalties.
  • Avoid flying over private property without express permission from the landowner to respect privacy and trespass laws.
  • Never operate drones weighing more than 55 pounds without special exemption from the FAA.

Tools and Apps for Safe Flying

Several smartphone apps help pilots stay legal and informed:

  • FAA DroneZone: Registration management and flight planning.
  • Kittyhawk / Aloft: LAANC authorizations and real time airspace alerts.
  • AirMap: Automated airspace advisories and NOTAM integration.
  • B4UFLY (legacy): Reference local restrictions and hazard overlays (superseded by FAA app).

Penalties for Non Compliance

Flying an unregistered drone, ignoring airspace rules or operating without Remote ID can incur civil penalties up to $30,000 per violation. Criminal charges may apply if a drone endangers safety or interferes with emergency operations. Commercial operators caught without a valid Remote Pilot Certificate face fines and suspension of privileges. Always keep registration and certification documents accessible during flight.

Building Your Drone Skills Safely

Join a Community Based Organization such as the Academy of Model Aeronautics for mentorship, local flying fields and educational workshops. NC chapters host regular safety seminars and group flights under FAA compliant protocols.

Whether you are capturing holiday aerials, inspecting rooftops or racing through forests, responsible drone operation protects our skies and communities. Register your drone, pass the required tests, follow updated airspace guidelines and leverage North Carolina resources. Then strap in, power up and enjoy safe flights, Santa will be proud.