Aerial Imaging Services in Newberg, 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

Newberg requires a business license for commercial drone operations. Newberg Parks and Recreation requires a permit for commercial drone takeoff and landing in city parks, including Ewing Young Park and Memorial Park. George Fox University requires coordination for drone flights on campus. Champoeg State Heritage Area requires Oregon State Parks permits for commercial drone operations. The city prohibits drone operations that endanger public safety or violate privacy under Newberg Municipal Code 5.04. Oregon state law (ORS 837.300-.340) governs privacy protections and surveillance restrictions statewide.

Restricted Airspace

• Newberg is in Class G uncontrolled airspace at typical data collection altitudes. MMV (McMinnville Municipal Airport) is 8 miles southwest and is uncontrolled with no tower. SLE Class D airspace is 20 miles south and does not affect Newberg. Operators should check FAA UAS Facility Maps for any airspace changes.
• The Willamette River forms the east boundary of Newberg. The river has active recreational traffic including boating, fishing, and kayaking. The riverfront area is heavily used. Maintain visual line of sight and avoid flying directly over people on the river. The Willamette River is designated as a State Scenic Waterway.
• George Fox University campus has high pedestrian traffic and several tall structures. The university should be contacted before planning drone flights on or near campus. The campus is in central Newberg and hosts events that may draw crowds.
• The surrounding Yamhill County wine country has extensive vineyard and winery operations. Drone flights over agricultural land should coordinate with property owners. Pesticide application by aircraft is common in the valley, creating potential airspace conflicts. The area is a major wine tourism destination.
• Champoeg State Heritage Area is 5 miles northeast of Newberg along the Willamette River. The state park has high visitor traffic and historical significance. Oregon State Parks may require permits for commercial drone operations. The park is heavily used for camping, hiking, and historical interpretation.