Aerial Imaging Services in Medford, 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

Medford requires a business license for commercial drone operations. Medford Parks and Recreation requires a permit for commercial drone takeoff and landing in city parks, including Prescott Park, Bear Creek Park, and Hawthorne Park. The city prohibits drone operations that endanger public safety or violate privacy under Medford Municipal Code 5.190. MFR Class C airspace covers the northern half of Medford requiring LAANC authorization. Oregon state law (ORS 837.300-.340) governs privacy protections and surveillance restrictions statewide.

Restricted Airspace

• MFR Class C airspace covers a 5-mile radius around Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport. LAANC authorization is required for commercial drone flights within the Class C area. The Class C surface area typically extends to 4,000 feet MSL. Check FAA UAS Facility Maps for specific altitude grids.
• The Rogue River flows through the Rogue Valley west of Medford. The river is heavily used for recreation including rafting, fishing, and jet boat tours. Maintain visual line of sight and avoid flying directly over people on the river. The Rogue River is designated as a State Scenic Waterway in sections.
• The Bear Creek Greenway is a 20-mile multi-use path through the Rogue Valley connecting Medford, Ashland, Talent, Phoenix, and Central Point. The path has high pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Avoid flying directly over Greenway users.
• Table Rock (Upper and Lower) is a prominent volcanic butte north of Medford with high visitor traffic and sensitive ecological habitat including rare plant species. The Nature Conservancy manages parts of Table Rock. Drone flights should avoid sensitive habitat areas and maintain safe distances from hikers.
• Prescott Park and Roxy Ann Peak on the east side of Medford have high visitor traffic and sensitive habitat. Medford Parks and Recreation requires permits for commercial drone takeoff and landing on park property. The peak area has high visitor traffic and is a popular hiking destination.