When it comes to droning, there’s never been a more exciting time to fly. Technology and innovation in the drone industry continue to grow and expand on the possibilities of drone photography and videography. Whether it’s more advanced cameras, longer flight time, or the growing popularity of FPV drones, aerial content is the rise. That’s why it’s more important than ever to understand drone etiquette and the basic rules of flying.
Governments around the world have imposed strict rules on drone flying. Meanwhile, consumer drones are now lightweight and capable of producing incredible images. With more entry-level drone pilots, it’s important that we all refresh our knowledge of drone etiquette rules. Whether it’s safety or security, drone pilots now must be aware of tightened rules on who could fly and where.
See More: How to Fly a Drone: A Beginner’s Guide
You’ll also find that bystanders can be wary of drones and of being photographed. Issues of privacy are also valid, and flying around crowds without permission is a serious concern. That’s why it’s important, in this day in age, to be respectful, responsible, and learn proper drone etiquette so you can create amazing aerial content without stepping on toes or worse, breaking the law.
Once you’ve acquired your drone — like these 9 Best Drones for Beginners — here are 10 simple drone etiquette tips to help you fly responsibly in 2021:
- Read the drone manual
- Update your drone consistently
- Acquire the necessary permits and licenses
- Do your research
- Learn the drone laws and regulations
- Don’t fly around crowds
- Don’t fly near private property
- Always ask for permission
- Always avoid disaster areas
- Fly safe
1. Read the drone manual
This might sound simple, but a lot of people don’t take the time to learn about the drone they are flying before they take it out to shoot. It’s important to watch videos and read the complete set-up instructions in your manual. Take time to practice flying in a secluded field or open area away from people, buildings, or obstacles. Learn the basics of flight before you actually go out and fly. It will result in much better and safer flying and will save you from any accidents.
2. Update your drone consistently
Drone software updates are critically important in improving your drone’s flight time and performance. It’s a lot like a smartphone update — we all know if you lag behind in software updates, it lowers the phone performance. The same goes for a drone, except neglecting to update software could result in your drone crashing and possibly causing a safety concern if it lands wrongly. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time before a flight to check and update any for new software editions.
3. Acquire the necessary permits and licenses
Regardless of your plans to fly recreationally or commercially, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the Small UAS Rule (Part 107) now requires all drone users to register their drones in their system for a small $5 fee. Any person caught flying with an unregistered drone could face serious fines.
In addition to registering your drone, if you plan to fly commercially, you must apply for and pass the exam for your Remote Pilot Certificate. There is a $160 fee involved and the certificate must be renewed every two years.
Finally, even if you have your Remote Pilot Certificate if you plan to fly for a project in an area, check to be sure that the area doesn’t require a specific permit for commercial aerial photography. Most cities, state and national parks, or event spaces require a permit for commercial drone photography.
Yes, flying legally, especially commercially, can take time, effort, and money. It’s best to get the permits and licenses needed to stay legal and in good standing to avoid any possible penalties or fees.
4. Do your research
This is another simple tip that even the most seasoned drone pilots need to remember. It’s important to do your research in any new area, city, state, or country you visit. You must know the specific drone rules and regulations in each place. Some places don’t have “no drone flying” signs but don’t allow flying. In some countries around the world, bringing a drone into the country is completely illegal and you can face serious penalties.
5. Learn the drone laws and regulations
Similar to tip #4, remember to never fly in places where drone flying is illegal. If you are found flying where banned, you could face substantial fines or prison time, even in the United States. It’s also incredibly easy to be caught flying illegally as a content creator. Finally, brands or clients you partner with would see your drone work. You don’t want to face dropped contracts because you didn’t follow the drone laws.
6. Don’t fly around crowds
This is pretty simple, but unless you have a permit to do so, it’s important to not fly around crowds. Not only for privacy issues, but because a possible drone crash could cause serious harm.
7. Don’t fly near private property
Again, if you don’t have a permit or permission to do so, don’t fly around private property. Not only could authorities be alerted, but you could put you, the property owner, and your drone in danger.
8. Always ask for permission
Another important tip for good drone etiquette is to always ask people around if it’s OK for you to fly. Even if you have all the correct permits and licenses, it’s courtesy to make people aware that you’ll be launching a drone. Whether it’s a public space or a backcountry campsite area, communication goes a long way. Even a small heads up can make the difference. Asking for permission can help as well, and simply approaching people and asking for consent is the proper way to fly.
9. Always avoid disaster areas
It’s important to never fly near disaster zones or areas. Your drone, while small, can interfere with Air Evac rescue missions and distract first responder crews that are dealing with potentially dangerous and deadly situations. No matter if it’s a wildfire, flood, or post-hurricane, don’t fly your drone in these areas. Your footage is not worth placing first responders, victims, and bystanders at risk.
10. Fly safe
Finally, remember above all: Fly safe. Never fly a drone while under the influence, or without having the knowledge and permits to do so. The more you learn and research, the better the flights, and ultimately, the better the content.
Now that you know your drone etiquette tips, follow these 12 drone photography tips to get started.
Feature photo by david henrichs on Unsplash
