Recreational vs Part 107
Short answerFlying purely for fun or personal enjoyment is recreational. Almost all other flying, including work, business and goodwill flights, falls under Part 107.
Side by side
Two sets of rules
RecreationalFly only for fun. Pass TRUST and carry proof. Follow an FAA-recognized community-based organization’s safety guidelines. Register drones over 0.55 lb.
Part 107For work, business, government or other non-recreational flying. Hold a Remote Pilot Certificate. Register every drone.
Both groups
Shared basics
400 ftRecreational: at or below 400 ft in Class G airspace. Part 107: max 400 ft above ground (higher only within 400 ft of a structure).
Line of sightKeep your drone within visual line of sight.
AuthorizationControlled airspace near airports needs FAA authorization, for example through LAANC.
Remote IDRegistered drones must comply with Remote ID.
Details
Which one am I?
Getting paid isn’t the test
The FAA says compensation, or the lack of it, is not what determines whether a flight is recreational.
Examples the FAA lists as Part 107
- Taking photos to help sell a property or service
- Roof inspections
- Pictures of a high school football game for the school’s website
- Goodwill, such as volunteering to survey coastlines for a non-profit
Not sure?
The FAA’s advice: when in doubt, assume Part 107 and meet all its requirements.
Can I use one registration for both?
No. A registration can’t be transferred between Part 107 and recreational operations.
More Part 107 rules
- Daylight, or twilight with anti-collision lighting; night with the conditions in the night rule
- Minimum visibility 3 miles from the control station
- Max speed 100 mph (87 knots)
- Report accidents with serious injury, loss of consciousness or certain property damage within 10 days
Sources
Official sources
- Recreational Flyers & Community-Based Organizations (FAA)
- Getting Started (FAA)
- Certificated Remote Pilots including Commercial Operators (FAA)
- Small UAS Regulations (Part 107) fact sheet (FAA)
- How to Register Your Drone (FAA)
Rules change. Always confirm on faa.gov before you fly.
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