Drone footage sells homes. But unauthorized drone flights over San Diego real estate can result in FAA fines up to $27,500 per violation — and expose agents and sellers to liability. Here’s what you need to know before booking aerial photography.
FAA Part 107 — The Baseline Requirement
Any drone used commercially — including for real estate photography — must be flown by a FAA-certified Part 107 Remote Pilot. This requires passing a written aeronautical knowledge exam and maintaining currency. All R360° aerial photographers are Part 107 certified.
San Diego’s Complex Airspace
San Diego County sits under some of the most complex airspace in the country — Miramar MCAS, NAS North Island, Lindbergh Field (SAN), Montgomery-Gibbs, Gillespie, and Palomar all create controlled airspace that requires LAANC authorization before any drone can fly legally.
LAANC — Automated Authorization
The Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system allows certified pilots to request real-time airspace authorization via apps like Aloft or DroneZone. Most authorizations are granted in seconds. Without LAANC approval in controlled airspace, every flight is illegal — regardless of the pilot’s certification.
Why This Matters for Agents
If you hire an uncertified “photographer with a drone,” you may be sharing liability for an illegal flight. Verify Part 107 certification and ask for the LAANC authorization receipt for your specific property address.
R360° Aerial Protocol
Every R360° drone shoot includes pre-flight airspace check, LAANC authorization (where required), and a FAA-compliant flight log. We operate exclusively with certified pilots and registered aircraft. Your listing, and your license, are protected.
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