Aerial Imaging Services in Grants Pass, 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

Grants Pass requires a business license for commercial drone operations. Grants Pass Parks and Recreation requires a permit for commercial drone takeoff and landing in city parks, including Riverside Park and Baker Park. The city prohibits drone operations that endanger public safety or violate privacy under Grants Pass Municipal Code 5.20. The Rogue River is designated as a National Wild and Scenic River with federal protections. The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest surrounds the area and requires US Forest Service permits for commercial drone operations. Oregon state law (ORS 837.300-.340) governs privacy protections and surveillance restrictions statewide.

Restricted Airspace

• Grants Pass is in Class G uncontrolled airspace at typical data collection altitudes. MFR Class C airspace is 25 miles south and does not affect Grants Pass. Grants Pass Airport (3S8) is uncontrolled with no tower. Operators should announce intentions on CTAF (122.8) and be aware of small GA traffic. Check FAA UAS Facility Maps for any airspace changes.
• The Rogue River flows directly through Grants Pass and is the city's defining feature. The river is heavily used for recreation including rafting, fishing, jet boat tours, and swimming. The Rogue River is designated as a National Wild and Scenic River and a State Scenic Waterway. Drone flights over the river should maintain visual line of sight and avoid flying directly over people on the river. Commercial rafting operations run daily during summer months.
• Riverside Park and Baker Park along the Rogue River have high visitor traffic. Grants Pass Parks and Recreation requires permits for commercial drone takeoff and landing on park property. Riverside Park is heavily used for events and festivals, especially during the summer Boatnik celebration.
• The surrounding Siskiyou Mountains and Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest have sensitive habitat and wilderness areas. US Forest Service requires permits for commercial drone operations on national forest land. Wilderness areas including the Kalmiopsis Wilderness prohibit motorized equipment including drones. Check with the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest office for permitting.
• The Caveman Bridge and historic downtown Grants Pass have high pedestrian traffic. The downtown area is a tourist destination with the famous "It's the Climate" slogan. Large gathering venues during summer festivals may have temporary flight restrictions. Check NOTAMs before flying near event venues.