Aerial Imaging Services in Albany, OR

FAA Part 107 Requirements

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

State Drone Laws

Oregon regulates drones primarily through ORS 837.300-.340, enacted via SB 425 (2013) and amended in subsequent sessions. ORS 837.320 prohibits operating a drone in a reckless manner or interfering with manned aircraft, with violations classified as a Class A violation. ORS 837.330 restricts drone use by law enforcement, requiring a warrant for surveillance except in emergency situations, search and rescue, and forest fire response. ORS 837.340 prohibits weaponization of drones and using drones to hunt or harass wildlife. ORS 164.653 extends privacy protections, making it a crime to use a drone to capture images of private premises where a reasonable expectation of privacy exists. Oregon does not require a separate state-level drone license for commercial operators, but all commercial pilots must hold a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. The state preempts local regulation of drone flight paths and navigable airspace, though cities may regulate takeoff and landing on public property they own. Oregon State Parks require a permit for commercial drone operations (OAR 736-010). Operators near military installations (Portland ANG, Kingsley Field Klamath Falls) must coordinate with base operations. The FAA controls all airspace above 400 feet.

Local Ordinances

Albany requires a business license for commercial drone operations. Albany Parks and Recreation requires a permit for commercial drone takeoff and landing in city parks, including Takena Landing, Bryant Park, and Monteith Riverpark. The city prohibits drone operations that endanger public safety or violate privacy under Albany Municipal Code 5.02. Albany Municipal Airport (S12) is uncontrolled but has active GA traffic. Oregon state law (ORS 837.300-.340) governs privacy protections and surveillance restrictions statewide.

Restricted Airspace

• Albany is in Class G uncontrolled airspace at typical data collection altitudes. SLE Class D airspace is 18 miles north and does not affect Albany. CVO is uncontrolled 8 miles west. Operators should check FAA UAS Facility Maps for any airspace changes. No LAANC authorization is typically required for commercial drone flights in Albany.
• The Willamette River flows through Albany. The river has active recreational traffic including boating, fishing, and kayaking. The riverfront trail system is heavily used. Maintain visual line of sight and avoid flying directly over people on the river or trail. The Willamette River is designated as a State Scenic Waterway.
• The Calapooia River flows through south Albany before joining the Willamette. The river has active recreational traffic and sensitive riparian habitat. Maintain visual line of sight and avoid flying directly over people on the river.
• Albany Municipal Airport (S12) is a small uncontrolled GA airport within the city. Operators should announce intentions on CTAF (122.8) and be aware of small aircraft traffic. The airport has active GA and flight training traffic.
• Takena Landing and Bryant Park along the Willamette River have high visitor traffic. Albany Parks and Recreation requires permits for commercial drone takeoff and landing on park property. The parks are heavily used for events and festivals, especially during summer months.