FAA Drone Waivers: What They Are, Why They Matter, and How to Get Them
If you’re a commercial drone pilot operating under FAA Part 107, you know that while drones offer incredible opportunities, there are also strict regulations in place. However, the FAA provides waivers that allow pilots to legally operate outside of standard Part 107 restrictions under certain conditions.
In this post, I’ll break down:
What FAA waivers are and how they work
The most common waivers and their uses
The waivers I personally hold and am applying for
How to apply for a waiver and improve your chances of approval
What Are FAA Part 107 Waivers?
FAA waivers are official approvals that allow drone pilots to legally bypass certain regulations under controlled conditions. They’re crucial for industries like real estate, construction, event coverage, inspections, and environmental monitoring, where normal restrictions might limit operations.
Without a waiver, violating Part 107 regulations can result in hefty fines, loss of certification, or legal action—so waivers are the only way to legally operate in restricted scenarios.
Common FAA Waivers & Their Uses
Here are some of the most common FAA waivers that commercial drone pilots apply for:
1️⃣ Flying Over People (107.39)
🔹 Use Case: Events, concerts, urban real estate, news coverage, inspections
🔹 Why It’s Restricted: Risk of injury if a drone fails
🔹 How to Get It: Must prove the drone can safely operate over people without causing harm, often requiring a lightweight drone or a parachute system
✅ I hold this waiver, allowing me to fly over crowds and populated areas legally.
2️⃣ Flying Over Moving Vehicles (107.145)
🔹 Use Case: Traffic monitoring, real estate, commercial shoots, aerial mapping of roads
🔹 Why It’s Restricted: Drones can distract drivers or cause accidents if they fall
🔹 How to Get It: Must demonstrate fail-safe technology, remote ID compliance, or flight paths that minimize risk
✅ I hold this waiver, which enables me to legally operate over moving vehicles.
3️⃣ Flying Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) (107.31)
🔹 Use Case: Long-range mapping, search & rescue, utility inspections, agriculture
🔹 Why It’s Restricted: Loss of visual contact increases risk of collisions and loss of control
🔹 How to Get It: Requires advanced detect-and-avoid technology or a system that ensures situational awareness
⏳ I am currently applying for this waiver to expand my capabilities for environmental mapping and conservation work.
4️⃣ Flying Above 400 Feet AGL (107.51)
🔹 Use Case: Tower inspections, environmental research, landscape photography
🔹 Why It’s Restricted: Drones must stay clear of manned aircraft
🔹 How to Get It: Must prove the operation won’t interfere with air traffic and will remain in controlled, low-risk airspace
⏳ I am currently applying for this waiver to legally operate at higher altitudes when needed.
5️⃣ Operating in Low Visibility Conditions (Less than 3 Miles Visibility & Cloud Proximity)
🔹 Use Case: Search & rescue, night photography, foggy conditions, storm monitoring
🔹 Why It’s Restricted: Reduced visibility increases risk of collisions
🔹 How to Get It: Must implement additional situational awareness tools like ADS-B receivers and demonstrate ability to maintain control in low visibility
⏳ I am currently applying for this waiver to expand my drone operations in challenging weather conditions.
How to Apply for an FAA Waiver (And Actually Get Approved)
Applying for an FAA waiver isn’t easy—it requires detailed documentation, a strong risk mitigation plan, and sometimes months of waiting. Here’s how to improve your chances:
1️⃣ Identify the Waiver You Need
Make sure it’s relevant to your business and something you actually need to operate.
2️⃣ Create a Strong Safety Case
The FAA only grants waivers if you prove your operation is as safe (or safer) than standard regulations. You must show:
✅ How you’ll mitigate risks
✅ What equipment you’re using (e.g., parachutes, ADS-B, visual observers)
✅ What operational procedures you’ll follow
3️⃣ Submit a Detailed Application
Use clear, professional language
Provide real-world testing data if possible
Address every possible risk and solution
4️⃣ Be Patient & Ready to Provide More Info
Approval can take weeks or months, and the FAA may ask for more details before making a decision.
Why FAA Waivers Matter for the Future of Drones
As drones become more advanced, waivers are paving the way for expanded operations. BVLOS flights, night operations, and urban drone deliveries will all depend on the FAA’s ability to regulate drone safety.
For drone pilots, having waivers gives you a huge competitive edge—it allows you to take on jobs that others legally cannot. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to secure these waivers and continue expanding what’s possible in drone photography, mapping, and virtual tours.
If you’re interested in drone services for real estate, golf courses, conservation, or commercial applications, reach out here 👉 [Insert Contact Link]
Final Thoughts
FAA waivers can unlock incredible opportunities, but they require planning, patience, and proof of safety. If you’re a drone pilot looking to expand your capabilities, start researching and applying for the right waivers now—because the industry is moving fast, and those who stay ahead will dominate the market.
Got questions about FAA waivers or drone operations? Drop a comment below! 🚁✨
