Aerial Imaging Services in Salem, 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

Salem requires a business license for commercial drone operations. Salem Parks and Recreation requires a permit for commercial drone takeoff and landing in city parks, including Riverfront Park, Bush Pasture Park, and Minto-Brown Island Park. The city prohibits drone operations that endanger public safety or violate privacy under Salem City Code 95.200. Much of Salem is within SLE Class D airspace requiring LAANC authorization. The Oregon State Capitol complex has security considerations. Oregon State Police may restrict drone operations near capitol facilities during legislative sessions and security events. Oregon state law (ORS 837.300-.340) governs privacy protections and surveillance restrictions statewide.

Restricted Airspace

• SLE Class D airspace covers a 5-mile radius around McNary Field, including downtown Salem and the state capitol area. LAANC authorization is required for commercial drone flights within the Class D area. Check FAA UAS Facility Maps for specific altitude grids. The Class D surface area typically extends to 2,500 feet MSL.
• The Oregon State Capitol complex may have security-related flight restrictions. While no permanent TFR exists, enhanced security awareness is required near the capitol building, supreme court, and state office buildings. Coordinate with Oregon State Police for flights near capitol facilities.
• The Willamette River flows through downtown Salem and has active recreational traffic including boating, fishing, and paddleboarding. The Riverfront Park area is heavily used for events. Maintain visual line of sight and avoid flying over people during festivals and gatherings.
• Salem Health Salem Hospital is a Level II trauma center with an active heliport. Medical helicopter operations create low-altitude traffic patterns near the hospital. Be aware of emergency helicopter traffic when operating in the hospital area.
• The Oregon State Penitentiary and Oregon State Correctional Institution are located in southeast Salem. Drone flights over correctional facilities are prohibited by federal regulation (14 CFR 99.7). Maintain a safe distance and avoid flying near prison perimeters.