Planning drone photos for your Hillsborough County listing? Between Tampa International’s airspace, MacDill’s security rules, and park permits, it can feel complicated fast. You want standout aerials that boost your marketing without risking fines or delays. This guide breaks down what you need to know to fly legally, protect privacy, and keep your shoot on schedule. Let’s dive in.
Who can fly for listings
If you are hiring a drone pilot for a real estate listing, that is a commercial operation under the FAA’s Part 107 rules. The pilot should hold a current Remote Pilot Certificate and follow all Part 107 requirements. You can review the FAA’s key standards in the agency’s guidance for Part 107 commercial operations.
Most drones must also meet the FAA’s Remote ID requirement. The aircraft either needs built-in Remote ID or a broadcast module, or you must fly in an FAA-recognized identification area. Ask your pilot how their system complies before the shoot.
Airspace in Hillsborough
Hillsborough County includes several airports, controlled airspace, and a major military base. Before any flight, your pilot should check the FAA’s B4UFLY app and request authorizations if the location falls in controlled airspace. You can learn how near-real-time approvals work through the FAA’s LAANC program overview.
Tampa International Airport
Tampa International (TPA) is surrounded by Class C airspace. Many listing locations near Tampa will require airspace authorization through LAANC or the FAA. For airport status and contacts, see the Tampa International Airport site and confirm boundaries through FAA tools.
MacDill Air Force Base
MacDill AFB has strict prohibitions on unauthorized drone operations. Do not attempt to fly near or over the base. Check notices and guidance from MacDill Air Force Base and the FAA before any shoot in South Tampa.
Other local airports
Tampa Executive, Plant City, and Peter O. Knight on Davis Islands each have nearby airspace considerations. Always verify controlled airspace and request LAANC when required. The FAA’s B4UFLY tool helps identify no-fly areas, Temporary Flight Restrictions, and nearby airports.
Parks and permits
County and city parks may restrict drones or require permits for commercial filming. Before flying near trails, waterfronts, or the Riverwalk, confirm the rules with these resources:
- Hillsborough County Parks: review park rules and contacts on the Parks & Recreation page.
- City of Tampa: check the city website for park and municipal rules that can affect filming.
If the property is in an HOA or a private community, get written approval to fly over common areas and to take off and land on site.
Wildlife and waterways
Tampa Bay and local estuaries are home to manatees and protected bird species. It is illegal to harass or disturb wildlife. Keep wide distances, avoid low passes over animals, and be cautious during nesting season. For current guidance, consult the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
Over-water flights add risk. Plan safer altitudes and return-to-home settings, and launch from stable shore locations. Avoid flight paths over marinas, busy docks, and boats when possible.
Privacy and Florida law
There is no single federal privacy law for drones, but Florida statutes prohibit certain intrusive recording. Avoid filming into places where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy, like bedrooms, fenced yards, or inside neighboring homes. When people are clearly identifiable, best practice is to obtain written releases and minimize footage that captures neighboring private spaces.
Flight planning checklist
Use this quick checklist to keep your shoot compliant and efficient:
- Confirm the pilot’s Part 107 certificate and Remote ID compliance
- Secure written permission from the seller and HOA when required
- Check B4UFLY, request LAANC if needed, and review NOTAMs and TFRs
- Verify park or municipal permits for county or city sites
- Review weather and any wildlife advisories
- Complete a preflight inspection and battery check
- Post brief notices or inform immediate neighbors if appropriate
- Maintain visual line of sight and follow planned altitudes
- Secure the footage and keep records of authorizations and releases
Safe shot types and altitudes
Plan a short, efficient flight path that focuses on the property and limits captures of neighboring areas. For most listings, 50 to 200 feet above ground can showcase the home, roof, and lot without intruding on privacy. For neighborhood context, your pilot may climb higher, but must stay within FAA limits and airspace approvals, typically not exceeding 400 feet above ground.
Avoid flying over people or moving vehicles. For waterfront homes, keep a safe lateral distance from marinas and wildlife, and avoid long, low passes.
What to do if challenged on site
If a neighbor, park official, or law enforcement officer raises a concern, pause the flight and cooperate. Your pilot should have their Part 107 certificate, LAANC authorization screenshots, and property permissions available. If there is a safety concern, stop the operation and regroup.
How we help your listing
You want aerials that elevate your marketing without delays or headaches. As a marketing-first, single-agent brokerage, we coordinate compliant aerial media with certified operators, manage permissions and timing, and protect privacy in post-production. It fits our hands-on approach to listing prep, from staging and painting to strategic digital campaigns, so your property hits the market ready to shine.
Ready to plan a safe, high-impact aerial shoot for your home? Schedule your free consultation & home valuation with Kimberly Pye, P.A.
FAQs
Do I need an FAA-certified pilot for my listing?
- Yes. Real estate drone work is a commercial operation under the FAA’s Part 107 rules, which require a Remote Pilot Certificate. See the FAA’s Part 107 guidance.
Can I fly near Tampa International Airport for listing photos?
- You need FAA authorization to fly in controlled airspace near TPA. Many locations require a LAANC approval. Review the FAA’s LAANC overview and check the TPA site.
Are drones allowed near MacDill Air Force Base?
- Avoid flying near or over MacDill. Military installations have strict prohibitions and enforcement. Check notices via MacDill AFB public affairs and FAA tools before any South Tampa shoot.
Do parks in Hillsborough County allow drones for listings?
- Some parks restrict drones or require permits for commercial use. Confirm rules through Hillsborough County Parks and the City of Tampa before scheduling.
What wildlife rules apply to Tampa Bay waterfront shoots?
- Do not disturb wildlife, including manatees and nesting birds. Keep distance and avoid low passes. Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for current advisories.
How do I know where I can fly today?
- Use the FAA’s B4UFLY tool to see airspace status, then request any needed LAANC approvals and check for current TFRs and NOTAMs.
