Filming with UAV/Drone in North Dakota

UAV/Drone

Drone use, or the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), in productions is becoming increasingly popular across the nation. Regulations surrounding drone use continues to evolve and change.  

Federal drone laws apply to every state in the U.S. Drone regulations are enforced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Please refer to the online resources within to learn more about responsible and safe flying in accordance with state, local and FAA regulations.

  1. Make sure you always have a visual line of sight. You never know what could be around, so keeping an eye on your drone at all times is key.
  2. Make sure you are staying within the correct flying height. A general rule from aviation authorities is flying below 400 feet or 121 meters AGL (Above Ground Level, or height from the ground or earth). Your goal is to avoid any and all possible conflict with manned aircraft such as airplanes or helicopters.
  3. Make sure you are following all local guidelines. Each city and state is a little different and in order to keep flying, you need to stay current will all local and federal rules.
  4. Don't fly over people. It just isn't safe. Same with flying over train tracks or at night. Safety needs to be key and at the forefront of your mind at all times.
  5. When flying a drone within approximately 5 miles to an airport you HAVE to request authorization per the FAA you are to contact LAANC.
  6. Whether you are flying for personal or business, you MUST get a remote pilot airman certificate with a small UAS rating.
  7. Drone usage at all North Dakota national parks is strictly prohibited.

Go to https://www.faa.gov/uas/ and http://knowbeforeyoufly.org/ for more information.

Drone Usage at the State Capitol

Drone operators may desire to film and photograph the State Capitol using a drone or unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Functions of state government have priority for use of the Capitol, and drone/UAV operation cannot interfere with functions of state government or present a possible threat to public safety. 

  1. The use of a drone/UAV inside the Capitol Complex is prohibited.
  2. The Capitol Complex is within the five (5) mile zone circumscribing the Bismarck Municipal Airport and all drone operators must fulfill all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations required for operating aircraft within the defined five (5) mile zone.
  3. Drone/UAV operators may request permission, in advance, to fly a drone/UAV within the defined Capitol Complex by submitting a Capitol Use Request Form from Facility Management describing the purpose of the drone/UAV request. The request shall include the name/agency/organization and all contact information, the date, time and duration of the flight, and the type of drone/UAV and equipment to be used.
  4. The Capitol Use Request form must be submitted to Facility Management at least fifteen (15) days prior to the intended use date.
  5. A written response to the applicant will be provided by Facility Management.