In this article, we’ve scouted out the best places to fly a drone in North Carolina.
Every year, travelers and drone pilots swarm to North Carolina to partake in the state’s outdoor activities, which include rafting, climbing, and hiking. It is also renowned for having a wide variety of scenery, from sandy beaches on coastal islands to the Rocky Mountains.
Outdoor activities are not the only ones available in North Carolina. The state is the birthplace of notable folk, blues, and jazz performers such as Nina Simone and Thelonious Monk, as well as some of the most delectable BBQ pulled pork.
In this article, I will reveal to you where to fly your drone in North Carolina, as well as where it is permitted and not permitted by the law to fly a drone. I will also offer regulatory guidance to assist you in maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
Drone Regulations In North Carolina
The federal drone laws governing drone operations in North Carolina, which were created by the Federal Aviation Administration, classify drone operations as either recreational or commercial.
Federal Regulations In North Carolina
Recreational drone pilots are subject to the FAA rules for recreational flyers, which require them to register their drones if they weigh more than 250 g and complete The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) before they can operate their drone for recreational purposes in the United States of America.
Commercial drone pilots are subject to FAA rules for commercial pilots, which require them to follow The Part 107 regulations, complete a multiple-choice exam, and earn a drone pilot certification from the FAA before they can operate their drone for commercial purposes in the United States of America.
When flying within five miles of an airport, drone pilots are no longer needed to independently contact air traffic control. Instead, to obtain airspace authorization to fly in regulated airspace near and above numerous airports, both commercial and leisure fliers can use the automated LAANC system. You must apply for airspace authorization if you are operating in Class B, C, D, or E regulated airspace. In areas where LAANC is not available, you can use the FAA Drone Zone or LAANC.
Interested in becoming an FAA-certified drone pilot so you can operate under the Part 107 regulations and make money flying your drone? Check out our industry-leading online training course over at Drone Pilot Ground School.
State and Local Regulations In North Carolina
Here is an in-depth guide to the drone laws in North Carolina that we put together. Be sure to check them out to see the state and local drone laws you need to adhere to in North Carolina. You should always exercise sound judgment when in doubt and adhere to the FAA’s regulations.
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this website should be construed as legal advice and is solely provided for informative reasons. If there is anything we missed or if you have any further questions, please contact us at info [at] droneller [dot] com, and we will do our best to assist you.
Best Places To Fly A Drone In Charlotte, North Carolina
Here are my top recommendations for where to fly a drone in Charlotte, North Carolina. These places were chosen because of their accessibility, airspace constraints, and tourist attractions.
1. Beatty’s Ford Park
8335 Shipley Ln, Denver, NC 28037, USA
Beatty’s Ford Park is a 54-acre recreational area on a peninsula of Lake Norman in Denver, North Carolina. A picturesque walk, an amphitheater, a few playgrounds, a boat launch, and several sporting facilities are among the amenities. Drone operation is ideal on the park’s grass. Aerial photographers may get some beautiful footage of the lake and its surroundings.
2. Clark’s Creek Greenway
9729 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28267, United States
The Clarks Creek Greenway, which stretches over 7.40 miles and is used by a variety of user groups, is the longest greenway. The Cross-Charlotte Path, a collaboration between Mecklenburg County and the City of Charlotte, aims to create a 26-mile continuous trail. Mallard Creek Greenway is a part of this project.
In the late summer or early fall, when butterflies are in great quantity, Clarks Creek and Mallard Creek Greenways are fantastic locations to explore with your drone. Much of the year, great blue herons, gray foxes, white-tailed deer, and other birds may be seen along these greenways.
These greenways are an excellent spot for people to exercise outside, including joggers, walkers, bicyclists, rollerbladers, skateboarders, and those with jogging strollers. The greenway has several links to nearby communities.
3. Lewis-Brooks RC Airfield
35.3356554, -81.2929397
Lewis-Brooks RC Airfield is a sizable, designated area in Bessemer City where drones may be safely flown. There are no adjacent impediments or obstacles because it is in a rural area. The field is run by Gaston RC Flyers, who also provide a warm welcome to the general public and visiting pilots.
But to fly here, you must be a member of the AMA (recommended). This well-liked club’s attractiveness is boosted by its tree-lined grassy field, covered buildings, neighborhood activities, and pilot instruction.
4. Mallard Creek Park
3001 Johnston Oehler Rd, Charlotte, NC 28269, United States
Mallard Creek Park is a 310-acre park that features 4 softball fields, 8 full-size soccer fields, a volleyball court, 2 picnic shelters, a concession stand, and a playground.
Mallard Creek Park is one of the best places to fly a drone, if you can get there on an empty day. The park is just one big open field that is occasionally utilized for football or baseball. You may freely fly your drone over and around Mallard Creek Park, which is over two miles wide.
5. Marshall Park
800 E 3rd Street, C., NC 28202, USA
Marshall Park is a 5.5-acre urban park at 800 East Third Street in Charlotte, North Carolina’s Second Ward. It has an amphitheater, a lake, a large fountain, a statue of Martin Luther King Jr., and a Holocaust memorial.
There is plenty of room to launch and land your drones in the open, grassy area. Marshall Park offers breathtaking views of the city skyline as it glistens spectacularly in the water of its lake.
6. Old Knights Stadium, Deerfield Drive
2244 Deerfield Dr, Fort Mill, SC 29715, USA
The Charlotte Knights once called Old Knights Stadium in Fort Mill their home field. After being abandoned, it has subsequently become a large open area that has drawn nearby drone operators. Additionally, you can meet other drone operators here or just observe them at work.
7. Reedy Creek Park
2900 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte, NC 28213, USA
Reedy Creek Park is a 125-acre urban park located in the Newell neighborhood of Charlotte, North Carolina, near 2900 Rocky River Road. A 737-acre natural preserve is located close to the park.
Sports grounds and courts for horseshoes, cricket, volleyball, softball, and soccer may be found in the main park. There are several ponds, seats, playgrounds, a disc golf course, a dog park, a community garden, and a lakeside fishing pier in addition to indoor and outdoor picnic areas.
Best Places To Fly A Drone In Raleigh North Carolina
Here are my top recommendations for where to fly a drone in Raleigh, North Carolina. These places were chosen because of their accessibility, airspace constraints, and tourist attractions.
1. Big Field at Dorothea Dix Park
1030 Richardson Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603, United States
Dorothea Dix Park is one of the most beautiful new park projects in America, and it’s less than a half-mile from downtown Raleigh. It’s the largest park in the city at 308 acres, home to big open fields and gorgeous meadows, and blends historic architecture and rich landscapes into a unique destination in Raleigh.
It’s a well-liked gathering place for families, friends, and dog walkers. The park is a drone-friendly area as well. Aerial photographers capture stunning images of the nearby countryside and far-off city skyline. A film may make the most of the gentle light and extended shadows during sunrise and dusk.
Be aware that drones are permitted at Dorothea Dix Park’s Big Field, but always confirm before you fly. However, drone activities are not allowed when the park is hosting one of its many annual events.
2. Fred G. Bond Metro Park
801 High House Rd, Cary, NC 27513, United States
Fred G. Bond Metro Park is the biggest municipal park in Cary, North Carolina. Additionally, it is one of Wake County’s biggest municipal parks. The town’s geographic center is at 801 High House Road, where it is situated. “An oasis in the center of Cary” is how one person has characterized the park.
The park offers magnificent pathways that extend over four miles and follow Bond Lake’s contours. Additionally, there are dedicated boating, fishing, and athletic fields. Users of camera drones are treated to picture-perfect views of the tree-lined lake and its varied surroundings.
3. Multipurpose Field at Spring Forest Road Park
4203 Spring Forest Rd, Raleigh, NC 27616, United States
The vast area at Spring Forest Road Park is ideal for a variety of leisure pursuits. The Multipurpose Field, a certified drone-friendly site, is the place we’re interested in.
It’s a fantastic location for flying training and developing aerial photography abilities. However, pilots must be aware that other park guests may occupy the site.
It should be noted that the park offers activities all year long and may rent out the Multipurpose Field for special occasions. Drones are not permitted to fly during that time, so always double-check.
4. Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park
35.6393696, -78.8165729
Before it was utilized to hold special events, the Sugg Farm parkland was used for farming. Additionally, it leads to Bass Lake Park, a well-liked local leisure area.
The smaller field to one side is the area we’re interested in. This region has been certified by park officials as a safe location for drone users. Aerial views of the lush fields, old-growth forests, and Bass Lake are impressive.
Final Thoughts on Where To Fly A Drone In North Carolina
So there you have it: the best places to fly a drone in North Carolina!
I hope you have a great time exploring the beautiful landscape of North Carolina from above. You can also check out where to fly a drone in other states and cities in the United States.
Always remember to obey the federal, state, and local drone laws in North Carolina to avoid having issues with the law and authorities.
And don’t forget to share this article with a friend and other drone pilots who will benefit from this information using the share icons below.
