What is a Government Operator?
Public agencies and government entities, including schools and universities, that use unmanned aircraft system/drone technology are considered government operators.
Federal Restrictions & Requirements
Please note: After Dec. 1, 2024, North Carolina will no longer require commercial and government drone operators to obtain an N.C. permit.
Government drone operators operate under
14 CFR Part 107, also known as the Small UAS Rule. The person operating a small unmanned aircraft system must either hold a remote pilot airman certificate with a small UAS rating or be under the direct supervision of a person who holds a remote pilot certificate (remote pilot in command).
As an alternative to operating under Part 107, a government operator may obtain a
Certificate of Waiver or Authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA reviews all Certificate of Waiver or Authorization applications on a case-by-case basis.