North Carolina Eliminates State Drone Permit Requirement, Streamlining Operations for Commercial Operators

Caroline du Nord is set to eliminate its state-level unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operator knowledge test and permit requirements, marking a significant shift in drone regulation that aims to reduce bureaucratic overhead while maintaining safety standards. The change, taking effect December 1, 2024, removes the state-specific licensing requirement for commercial and government opérateurs de drones.

Commercial operators must still comply with all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements under 14 CFR Part 107, commonly known as the Small UAS Rule, emphasizing that safety oversight remains firmly in place.

Regulatory Streamlining

The change stems from a broader initiative to harmonize state and federal drone regulations. Riley Beaman, UAS Program Manager at the NC Division of Aviation, clarified that while state permits will no longer be required, operators must maintain compliance with federal guidelines and specific North Carolina restrictions regarding privacy and sensitive locations.

“Commercial operators are still required to follow the Federal Aviation Administration’s requirements for operating drones under 14 CFR Partie 107,” Beaman noted in an official communication.

Impact on Commercial Operations

For commercial drone operators, this regulatory change reduces administrative burden without compromising safety standards. The elimination of state-specific requirements streamlines the path to Juridique operation while maintaining the federal framework that ensures operational safety and pilot competency.

Key federal requirements remaining in effect include:

• FAA Remote Pilot Certification
• Aircraft registration for drones over 0.55 pounds
• Compliance with airspace restrictions
• Adherence to operating limitations

Looking Ahead

This regulatory update positions North Carolina among states actively working to create a more efficient environment for drone operations while maintaining necessary safety oversight. The change particularly benefits commercial operators engaged in inspection, emergency response, and other professional applications by reducing regulatory complexity.

For questions about the new requirements, the NC Division of Aviation’s UAS Department remains available through their UAS Technical Trainer, Thomas Walls, who can be reached at tmwalls@ncdot.gov.

The policy change reflects a maturing regulatory approach that recognizes the growing sophistication of both Technologie des drones and operator training standards. As the industry continues to evolve, this streamlining of requirements may serve as a model for other states seeking to balance safety oversight with operational

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