How To Fly A Drone Safely And Follow The Rules!

Drones are fun and useful "toys" for your outdoor pursuits, but you need to follow the rules!

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few years, you've probably heard of drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks in part to their relatively low cost and easy-to-use design. But before you go out and buy a drone of your own, there are a few things you need to know about the rules and regulations surrounding their use.

You'll need a license to fly most drones.  To apply for a drone license, you will need to submit an application to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The application must include your name, address, and contact information. You will also need to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. Once your application is submitted, the FAA will review it and determine if you are eligible for a license. If you are approved, you will be issued a license that is valid for two years.

After you've purchased your drone, you must register your drone with the FAA. You can do this by visiting the FAA website. Once you've registered, you'll need to carry your drone's registration certificate whenever you fly it. You also need to clearly mark the drone's registration number on its exterior. You can use a permanent marker or engraving tool, but the best option is a printable sticker.

Following some simple guidelines will prevent accidents and keep your drone safe.  Some are common sense, and some are from the FAA.  You'll need to keep these rules in mind when flying your drone:

• Avoid flying near populated areas.
• Do not fly your drone above an altitude of 400 feet.
• Keep the drone more than 164 feet, or 50 meters away from a building.
• Do not fly at a speed over 100mph.
• You are not allowed to fly your drone within 5 miles of an airport without prior approval from airport authorities.
• Do not fly a drone in a crowded area without contacting the FAA first.
• Always keep your drone within your line of sight.

Besides being illegal, flying your drone in a public area can also cause public nuisance. Some states have laws prohibiting drone flights over public property, while others prohibit drone flights over state parks. This is because drones can disturb wildlife and cause damage to the land. Those violating these laws may also face fines.

Fly Your Drone Within Line Of Sight

Another important rule to follow while flying your drone is to stay in line of sight. This means flying your drone in the open, while remaining in visual contact with it at all times. This will cut down on accidents and protect your drone. In addition, you must also comply with any requests made by property owners. Remember, drones have sharp parts and can cause serious injuries.

Nighttime Drone Flying

You should also be aware of the rules about flying your drone at night. Some states even prohibit the use of drones at night. While the rules for flying a drone at nighttime vary according to the purpose of the flying activity, you must always ensure that you have an anti-collision lighting system installed on the drone. These lights must be clearly visible at a distance of three miles. They must also have a sufficient flash rate.

Drone Safety - Conclusion

Drones are becoming increasingly popular, but there are still some rules and regulations that users need to be aware of before they take to the skies. In the United States, users must obtain a license from the FAA in order to legally operate a drone. There are also some restrictions on where drones can be flown and how high they can fly. Finally, those who want to use their drones for commercial purposes will need to obtain a separate commercial license.

By following these rules, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience when flying your drone.

Cheers to the great outdoors,
Bert