Drone footage has become one of the most powerful tools in real estate marketing, but not every person flying a drone over your listing is doing it legally. Understanding FAA Part 107 certification protects you, your seller, and the transaction.
What Is FAA Part 107?
The FAA's Part 107 regulation governs commercial small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) — what most people call drones. Any operator flying a drone for commercial purposes, including real estate photography and video, is required by federal law to hold a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Obtaining this certification requires passing a written aeronautical knowledge test administered at an FAA-approved testing center. The test covers airspace classification, weather, emergency procedures, radio communications, and drone operations. It's not trivial — the pass rate for first-time test takers hovers around 85%, and maintaining certification requires recurrent testing every 24 months.
Why It Matters for Real Estate
When an unlicensed operator flies a drone over your listing, everyone involved assumes liability. The agent who hired the operator, the brokerage, and the homeowner can all face consequences if something goes wrong — a drone strike on a neighboring property, interference with manned aircraft, or an FAA enforcement action. The fines for commercial drone operation without Part 107 start at $1,100 per violation and can exceed $27,500.
Beyond legal liability, uncertified operators typically carry no commercial insurance. A certified Part 107 pilot is required to understand the insurance landscape and, for professional operators, typically carries a commercial liability policy covering the equipment and any third-party property damage.
Airspace Authorization
Part 107 certification also gives operators the ability to obtain airspace authorization for controlled airspace through the FAA's LAANC system (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability). Properties near Nashville International Airport (BNA), Smyrna Airport, or other controlled airspace require this authorization to fly legally. An uncertified operator either won't know this or will fly illegally.
How to Verify Certification
Ask your videographer to provide their FAA Remote Pilot Certificate number. You can verify any Part 107 certificate on the FAA's Airmen Inquiry portal at amsrvs.amsrvs.faa.gov. Legitimate operators will provide this without hesitation.
Film My Listing is FAA Part 107 certified and carries commercial liability insurance. Certificate documentation is available on request for any brokerage that requires it. Book a shoot knowing your aerial footage is fully legal and insured.