UAS Information

The Oregon Department of Aviation encourages you to operate your UAS in a safe and lawful manner. The information provided is intended to address general guidelines based on Federal Aviation Regulations. Operators should be familiar with all applicable requirements including all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. We recommend contacting the appropriate authorities to ensure compliance.

The ODA owns and operates 28 Airports throughout the State of Oregon within both class D and G airspace. The ODA does not permit recreational UAS operations on state airport property. Requests to operate from state property, commercially or as part of a public agency, will require authorization by the ODA. All requests are subject to ODA approval.

The Oregon Department of Aviation appreciates the time you have taken to ensure safe and compliant flight. For more information please email us at UAS@aviaiton.state.or.us

Recreational Operations

Recreational operations are classified by the FAA as those conducted for recreational or hobby purposes only. There can be no commercial, business, or financial benefit associated with the operation.

Operate in compliance with community-based safety guidelines, such as the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) safety code found here.
Always remain clear of manned aircraft
Do not exceed 400’
UAS must be below 55 lbs.
Do not operate over people
Do not operate near emergency responders such as firefighters or police
Maintain visual line-of-site at all times
Airport and air traffic control notification required. Notify any airport and air traffic control tower before operating within 5 miles of an airport or heliport. Instructions for operations within 5 miles of Port of Portland airports can be found in the link below

Commercial Operations

Operations for commercial or business purposes are classified as “commercial UAS operations” and subject to the to the requirements set forth in Federal Aviation Regulations Part 107. Operations conducted under FAR Part 107 do not require advance notice to the local airport or air traffic facility.

If your commercial UAS operation will take place within controlled airspace, please visit the FAA DroneZone to access all the UAS information and resources needed for your operation.

Basic requirements under FAR Part 107 include:

Pilot must hold a Remote Pilot Certification obtained through the Federal Aviation Administration
Operations may be conducted within Class G airspace only
Pilot must keep the aircraft within visual line-of-sight
Must remain below 400 feet AGL
Must fly during daylight hours
Airspeed may not exceed 100 mph
Must yield right of way to manned aircraft
Must NOT fly over people
Must NOT fly from a moving vehicle
Aircraft weight may not exceed 55 lbs.

* Some requirements may be subject to FAA waiver

For more information visit: www.faa.gov/uas/commercial_operators

Notification for Recreational UAS Operations Within 5 Miles of ODA Airports

To determine if you will be operating within 5 miles of a state owned airport, please see a list of our airports here and visit Know Before You Fly.

If you are within a mandatory notification area, please use the instructions below for providing notification to the airport and air traffic control:

For recreational UAS operations within 5 miles of State owned airport operators must provide advance notice to both the airport and air traffic control.

Oregon Department of Aviation (ODA) Notification
Call the ODA at 503-378-2211 or email us at UAS@aviation.state.or.us

Air Traffic Control Notification
Calls during normal business hours (Monday-Friday) are recommended.

Aurora State Airport (UAO) Control Tower:
Call at (503) 678-2243 or email at raul.suarez@serco-na.com

Please be prepared to provide the following information:

Pilot’s full name
Organization Name (if applicable)
Mailing address
Contact phone number
Date, time, location, and duration of operation
Maximum altitude

Port of Portland Notification
For information on how to operate at Port of Portland properties please visit: www.portofportland.com/programs/drones

The guidance contained herein is based on the most current information available from the FAA. This is not intended to be used as legal advice. Operators are encouraged to ensure an understanding and compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local, regulatory requirements prior to operating a UAS.

UAS Information

Recreational Operations

Commercial Operations

Notification for Recreational UAS Operations Within 5 Miles of ODA Airports

Related Links