Aerial Imaging Services in Adrian, MI

FAA Part 107 Requirements

All commercial drone operations in Michigan require the pilot to hold an active FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Our network operators are verified Part 107 holders.

State Drone Laws

Michigan regulates drone operations primarily through the Michigan Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act (Public Act 451 of 2016, MCL 259.301 et seq.). The Act prohibits using drones to surveil or photograph individuals without consent in areas where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, and restricts drone use for hunting and fishing harassment. Commercial drone operators must hold a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and obtain LAANC authorization for controlled airspace. Michigan does not require additional state-level drone registration or licensing beyond FAA requirements. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) uses drones for infrastructure inspection and has published guidelines for aerial work near state highways. Local municipalities may enact reasonable regulations on takeoff and landing locations but cannot conflict with FAA airspace authority. Operators should carry minimum $1M liability insurance for commercial aerial imaging projects.

Local Ordinances

Adrian operates under the Michigan Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act (Public Act 451 of 2016, MCL 259.301 et seq.) which preempts local regulation of drone flight paths and navigable airspace. The City of Adrian requires a business license for commercial drone operators. Drone takeoff and landing in city parks requires coordination with the Adrian Parks and Recreation Department, including Heritage Park, Trestle Park, and the Kiwanis Trail system. Operations near Adrian College and Siena Heights University should coordinate with campus administration. Operations near Lenawee County Airport (ADG) should follow GA traffic pattern procedures. Commercial operators should carry minimum $1M liability insurance for aerial imaging projects.

Restricted Airspace

• Adrian is in Class E uncontrolled airspace. Lenawee County Airport (ADG) is a small GA facility southwest of the city without Class D airspace. The nearest controlled airspace is Toledo Express Airport (TOL) Class C approximately 25 NM south and Detroit Metro Wayne County Airport (DTW) Class B approximately 45 NM northeast. Most of Adrian and the surrounding area is in uncontrolled airspace, making it more accessible for commercial drone operations than cities under Class B/C/D. Operators should still check the FAA B4UFLY app for their specific location.
• The M-52 and US-223 highway corridors are major infrastructure assets. MDOT South Region manages state highway infrastructure in the area. The S. Main St. (M-52) road closure project starting July 2026 is a major construction project. The Main Street and Maumee Street corridors have ongoing commercial and residential development. The Lenawee County Road Commission has an active construction and infrastructure inspection program.
• Adrian is home to the ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital campus, Adrian College, and Siena Heights University. The hospital campus has medical facility and privacy considerations. Adrian College is a private liberal arts college with approximately 1,700 students. Siena Heights University is a Catholic university with approximately 2,500 students. Operations near the campuses should coordinate with college and university administration. The educational institutions have ongoing construction and renovation activity.
• The River Raisin corridor and the Indian Creek watershed have environmental and recreational considerations. The River Raisin flows through the southern part of Adrian and has ongoing environmental monitoring demand. The Bean Creek and the Tiffin River headwaters have agricultural and environmental considerations. Operations near the river corridor should coordinate with the Michigan EGLE and the Lenawee County Drain Commissioner. The agricultural landscape surrounding Adrian creates demand for agricultural drone aerial imaging services.
• The Adrian downtown commercial district along Main Street and Maumee Street has dense retail and residential development. The Town Square project is a major downtown redevelopment initiative. The Adrian Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has a 2024 Development Plan and TIF Plan to guide downtown revitalization. The City of Adrian and the DDA host open houses to discuss the Town Square project, which includes public space redesign, streetscape improvements, and community gathering areas. Construction is planned to start in spring with completion expected by end of summer 2025.