What FAA Part 107 means when you hire a drone photographer
You find a drone photographer online. Their portfolio looks solid, the aerials are crisp, and the price is right. You book the shoot, the photos turn out great, and you upload them to the MLS. A week later you get a call from your broker. Something about the drone flight being illegal. That is not a conversation you want to have.
FAA Part 107 is not optional for real estate work
FAA Part 107 is the rule that governs commercial drone flight in the United States. If a pilot is flying to photograph a property for a real estate listing, that is commercial work. That means the pilot needs an FAA Part 107 certification. This is not a suggestion. It is the law.
To get certified, a pilot must pass a knowledge test covering airspace rules, weather, safe operations, and regulations. They also need to register their drone and follow operational limits like staying below 400 feet and keeping the aircraft in sight. A certified pilot understands where they can and cannot fly, especially near airports, helipads, or restricted Detroit airspace.
Why this matters for you as the listing agent
- If an uninsured or uncertified pilot crashes into a house or injures someone, you could be exposed to liability. A Part 107 certified pilot carries commercial insurance that actually covers the job.
- The MLS and your broker both expect you to represent that listing media was obtained legally. Using non-compliant aerials can create problems down the line during a transaction.
- Uncertified pilots often do not know restricted airspace from open space. Oakland County has controlled areas near Pontiac and Detroit Metro airports. Flying in the wrong zone can mean fines for the pilot and headaches for you.
What to ask before you book
Do not assume. Ask the photographer directly if they hold an active FAA Part 107 certification. Then ask if they carry commercial liability insurance. Any professional drone photographer in Metro Detroit will have both. If they hesitate or say they are working on it, move on.
Also ask where they plan to fly. A good Part 107 pilot checks airspace before every flight using apps that show restricted zones. They will know if they need authorization to fly near a heliport or if the property is clear. That pre-flight check is part of what you are paying for.
Drone aerials add real value to a listing when done right. Just make sure the person holding the controller is legally allowed to be there. It protects your listing, your reputation, and your broker. EZ Shots includes FAA Part 107 certified drone coverage in every package at no extra charge, and the pilot handles all airspace checks before each flight.