Oregon Drone Laws: A Complete Guide

In Oregon, drones are becoming increasingly widely used for both business and recreational purposes. But owning a drone and taking off are not the same thing. To prevent fines, penalties, or legal issues, you must be aware of and abide by the different laws and rules that regulate the usage of drones in Oregon. We will provide you a thorough overview of Oregon Drone Laws in this post, covering the federal, state, and municipal regulations that are relevant to drone activities in Oregon.

Federal Oregon Drone Laws

Federal drone laws are guidelines established by the federal government that are applicable to all 50 states, including Oregon. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which manages the national airspace system and governs all facets of civil aviation, is the principal federal agency in charge of drone safety.

You must comply with the criteria of the FAA’s Part 107 Small UAS Rule (Part 107), which includes passing the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test to get a Remote Pilot Certificate, in order to fly a drone as a commercial pilot in Oregon (that is, for employment or business reasons). The Part 107 license is covered in more detail FAA Site.

The FAA mandates that you pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) before you can fly a drone recreationally in Oregon (i.e., for fun or enjoyment). Additionally, you must abide by the FAA’s recreational model airplane regulations, which include:

• If your drone weighs more than 0.55 lbs (250 g), you must register it with the FAA and display your registration number on it. For a $5 cost, you can register your drone online at FAA.
• Flying your drone at a height of no more than 400 feet above ground level (AGL) or, if lower, the airspace ceiling.
• Keeping your drone in your visual line of sight (VLOS) or with the assistance of a visual observer who can do the same and can stay in constant communication with you.
• Utilizing the proper anti-collision lighting while only operating your drone during daylight or civil twilight (30 minutes before sunrise or after dusk).
• Flying your drone at a speed of 87 knots or less.
• Launching your drone outside of stadiums, helipads, national parks, military installations, and other off-limits zones. With the use of programs like B4UFLY, AirMap, or Kittyhawk, you may search for these locations.
• Keeping your drone far enough away from other planes, people, cars, and animals. You must avoid flying over people or moving cars, and you must give way to manned aircraft.
• Use only Class G airspace (uncontrolled airspace) or airspace in which you have received permission from air traffic control (ATC) to fly your drone. Apps like B4UFLY, AirMap, or Kittyhawk can be used to check the airspace classification.
• Following the community-based safety regulations of a national community-based organization (CBO), such as the Drone User Group Network (DUGN) or the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA).

You can either operate under the FAA’s Part 107 rule or acquire a federal Certificate of Authorization (COA) if you want to fly a drone as a government employee in Oregon (for example, for a police or fire service). A COA is a permission granted by the FAA to public bodies to carry out particular drone operations that are prohibited by Part 107.

Recreational Drone Pilots

Recreational drone pilots do not use their drones for any business purposes; rather, they fly them for enjoyment or pleasure. To maintain safety and avoid interfering with manned aircraft, the FAA has created special guidelines and procedures for recreational drone operators. These recommendations include:

1. Recreational drone pilots in Oregon are required to pass the FAA-administered Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), which verifies their knowledge of fundamental aviation safety and drone rules.
2. A recreational drone must be registered with the FAA if it weighs more than 0.55 lbs (250 g), and the registration number must be displayed on the drone. Through the DroneZone portal of the FAA, the registration can be completed online.
3. Operational Requirements: Pilots of recreational drones are required to adhere to a number of operational requirements, such as flying the device no higher than 400 feet above the ground (AGL), keeping visual line of sight (VLOS), avoiding flying over people or moving objects, and only using designated airspace or Class G airspace.
4. Time and weather restrictions: Only during daylight or civil twilight hours (30 minutes before sunrise or after sunset) are recreational drone flights allowed. Drones should not be flown in bad weather since it could compromise flight safety.

Commercial drone operators  

In Oregon, commercial drone operators use drones for professional or commercial tasks including aerial photography, surveying, inspections, or package delivery. Pilots must adhere to the FAA’s Part 107 Small UAS Rule in order to fly drones commercially, which includes the following requirements:

1. Commercial drone pilots are required to pass the FAA’s Aeronautical Knowledge Test and receive a Remote Pilot Certificate. This certification proves that they are knowledgeable about airspace laws, aviation regulations, and safe drone operations.
2. Commercial drone operators are required to abide by operating restrictions such flying below 400 feet AGL, maintaining VLOS, flying during daylight or civil twilight, and avoiding flights over individuals who are not directly involved in the operation.
3. Waivers and Authorizations: In some circumstances, commercial drone pilots may require FAA waivers or authorizations to operate outside of the norm. For instance, specific authorizations may be needed to fly at night, over people, or in controlled airspace.

Agency Drone Pilots

In Oregon, agency drone pilots represent governmental, police enforcement, and fire departments, among other public bodies. These pilots fly drones for particular governmental functions like data collecting, surveillance, and search and rescue operations. Agency drone operators can choose between two modes of operation:

1. Agency drone pilots who earn a Remote Pilot Certificate and adhere to Part 107’s standards can fly under the same laws as commercial drone operators.
2. Certificate of Authorization (COA): Organizations may also get a COA from the FAA, allowing them to carry out particular drone operations that are not allowed by Part 107. The operational guidelines for agency drone pilots are specified in COAs, which are granted on an as-needed basis.

The federal drone laws and regulations that are relevant to their particular category of operation should be kept up to date by all drone operators in Oregon. Recreational, professional, and agency drone pilots can assure safe and lawful drone operations in the state by being aware of and abiding by these rules.

State Drone Laws in Oregon

State drone laws, which were developed by the Oregon Legislative Assembly, are the rules and guidelines that are applicable to the entire state of Oregon. There are four state-wide regulations governing the use of drones in Oregon, according to the Oregon Legislative Assembly and the Oregon Department of Transportation. The highlights are included further down. Click on the links above for additional information.

HB 3047 // 2017

This law: 

• Amends the statute against UAS weaponization and designates firing a projectile or bullet from a weaponized UAS as a class C crime.
• enables law enforcement to recreate an accident scene using UAS.
• prohibits the use of UAS over private property in a way that harasses or infuriates the property’s owner or tenant with the intent, knowledge, or recklessness to do so.

HB 4066 // 2016

• The operation of a weaponized UAS is now a class A misdemeanor under this statute, which modifies definitions relating to UAS.
• restricts the use of drones by government organizations and mandates norms and procedures for data storage.
• prohibits the use of UAS near important infrastructure, such as prisons.
• This law, SB 5702 from 2016, specifies the costs associated with registering public UAS.

HB 2710 // 2013

This law 

• permits a law enforcement agency to fly a drone with a warrant and under specific circumstances, such as training.
• stipulates that every drone used by a public organization must be registered with the Oregon Department of Aviation (DOA), which is responsible for maintaining a registration of all drones used by public organizations.
• imposes additional criminal and civil penalties for equipping drones with weapons, interfering with or gaining illegal access to public drones, and putting weapons on drones.
• allows landowners to take legal action against a drone operator who flies a drone below 400 feet over their property if they have informed the owner or operator that they do not want a drone flown at that altitude.

Local Oregon Drone Laws

Local drone laws are policies and guidelines developed by local governments that are applicable to particular towns, counties, and cities in Oregon. You should check for any local ordinances before flying your drone in Oregon as they may complement or restrict the federal and state drone rules. Below are a few of the local drone laws in Oregon. Click on the links above for additional information.

Portland

Drone use in public parks without a permit is outlawed by a city ordinance in Portland. The use of drones for business endeavors or to photograph or record individuals without their agreement is likewise prohibited by the code. The policy also mandates that drone pilots respect other people’s privacy and safety while abiding by FAA regulations.

Eugene

Unauthorized use of drones in city parks is prohibited by a city ordinance in Eugene. The use of drones for business endeavors or to photograph or record individuals without their agreement is likewise prohibited by the code. The policy also mandates that drone pilots respect other people’s privacy and safety while abiding by FAA regulations. Visit Eugene for more details on the ordinance.

Bend

A local ordinance in Bend makes it illegal to use drones in city parks without a permit. The use of drones for business endeavors or to photograph or record individuals without their agreement is likewise prohibited by the code. The policy also mandates that drone pilots respect other people’s privacy and safety while abiding by FAA regulations.

Oregon’s Top Locations for Drone Photography

Oregon is a stunning state with a variety of attractions and landscapes. Here are some of Oregon’s top locations for drone photography:

Crater Lake National Park: A natural wonder, Crater Lake National Park is home to the country’s deepest lake, which was created when a volcano collapsed. The breathtakingly blue water, the surrounding rocks, and the island in the middle of the lake may all be captured with a drone.

Columbia River Gorge: is a beautiful region with a river, waterfalls, forests, and mountains that straddles the boundary between Oregon and Washington. The landscape’s beauty and diversity, as well as well-known sites like Multnomah Falls, the Bridge of the Gods, and the Vista House, may all be captured using a drone.

Mount Hood: Mount Hood, the tallest mountain in Oregon, is a well-liked spot for camping, hiking, and skiing. The gorgeous mountain, the snow-covered peaks, and the alpine lakes can all be captured using a drone.

The Oregon Coast: is a lengthy stretch of coastline that features rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and lighthouses in addition to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The animals, including whales, seals, and birds, as well as the beauty and variety of the shore may all be captured using a drone.

Painted Hills: Made of volcanic ash and minerals, Painted Hills is a geological wonder that includes hills with various hues and designs. Especially around sunrise or sunset, you can utilize your drone to photograph the distinctive and beautiful scenery.

Oregon Drone Insurance

Drone insurance offers financial security in Oregon against any risks and liabilities related to drone operations. It is crucial in light of the potential for accidents, property damage, personal injury, or invasions of privacy associated with the usage of drones.

Insurance Options

To meet the unique demands of drone operators, drone insurance policies provide a variety of coverage alternatives. These choices could consist of:

 Liability Coverage

Fundamental to drone insurance is liability coverage. It protects against a drone’s legal liability for personal harm or property damage. For instance, liability insurance would assist in defraying expenses if a drone collided with someone or caused property damage.

Hull Coverage

The drone’s physical hull is coated to prevent damage from mishaps, collisions, and other covered risks. Costs for the drone’s maintenance or replacement are frequently included.

Payload Coverage

Any payload or equipment that is mounted to the drone, such as cameras or sensors, is protected by payload covering. Professional drone operators that employ specialized gear for activities like aerial photography, surveying, or inspections will find this coverage to be especially helpful.

Personal Injury Coverage

Defamation, intellectual property rights violations, and invasion of privacy claims are all covered under personal injury insurance. It is especially important for drone pilots who photograph or film people or private property.

Coverage for Non-Owners

Drones that the operator rents or borrows are covered under non-owned coverage. It offers defense in the event that a drone operated by a third party damages or injures someone.

Regulations and Requirements in Oregon

To guarantee safe and responsible drone use in Oregon, operators must adhere to rules established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Although it is not required by FAA regulations, drone insurance is strongly advised to reduce the financial risks connected with drone operations.

In Oregon, there were no additional insurance requirements for drones as of September 2021. To maintain compliance, it is essential to stay current on the most recent regulations by consulting the official websites of the FAA and the Oregon State Aviation Board.

Selecting a Provider of Drone Insurance

Researching and comparing insurance companies is crucial when looking into drone insurance in Oregon to discover the best coverage for your need. Here are a few things to think about:

Coverage Limits

To ensure they match your needs, compare the coverage limits provided by various insurers. Choose coverage limits that will effectively protect you in the event of an incident after taking into account the potential hazards involved with your drone operations.

Deductibles 

Consider the deductibles connected to the insurance plans. The amount you would have to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage begins is known as a deductible. Choose a deductible that fits your financial situation.

Premiums

Examine the premiums that various insurance companies are offering. The kind of drone you use, how you use it, how experienced you are as a pilot, and the coverage options you select can all affect your premiums. Get estimates from several insurance providers to obtain the best deals.

Reputation and Customer Service

You should investigate the standing and prudence of the insurance providers you are choosing. To evaluate the effectiveness of their claims handling procedures, customer service standards, and level of satisfaction, read reviews and testimonials from other drone operators.

In conclusion, drone insurance in Oregon offers crucial defense against foreseeable hazards and liabilities for drone operators. Drone owners can operate their aircraft with more confidence and financial security by being aware of their insurance options, following the law, and choosing the best insurance provider.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is critical for both recreational and business drone users to comprehend and abide by the laws and regulations governing drone operations in Oregon. Drone operators can assure safety and compliance by adhering to the federal laws established by the FAA, such as getting the required certifications and flying within the established guidelines. To prevent legal problems, it is also crucial to be informed of state and municipal legislation, such as prohibitions on the development of weapons, issues with privacy, and particular rules in certain towns. Additionally, it is strongly advised to think about drone insurance in Oregon to reduce any potential dangers and liabilities related to drone activities. Drone operators can capture magnificent aerial photos while flying their drones in Oregon’s scenic landscapes with confidence by picking a reliable insurance provider and appropriate coverage options.

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