The Port of Portland 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 Port of Portland prohibits recreational UAS operations on Port properties including aviation, marine, industrial, and environmental properties. Requests for commercial and public UAS operations require a permit obtained through the Port of Portland. All applications are subject to Port approval. A minimum of 5 business days is required to process applications.
For more information, call the Pilot Information Line at 503-460-4111 and select the option for “unmanned aviation”, or email us at drones@portofportland.com.
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.
In May of 2019, the federal regulations related to recreational operation of unmanned aerial systems (drones) have changed. Most notably, UAS operations within “controlled” airspace is prohibited without prior FAA authorization. Notification to the airport operator and local air traffic control facility no longer applies and neither (the airport nor the local air traffic control facility) can authorize UAS operations.
The controlled airspace for the Port’s three airports (PDX, HIO, TTD) are contained within a 5-mile (approximately) radius of each airport. Within that area, UAS operations require FAA authorization. Currently, there is no system in place for requesting airspace authorization for recreational flyers. The FAA is in the process of developing this capability and when it is available we will provide additional information.
The new rules for recreational UAS operations are summarized below:
The regulatory requirements governing operations conducted under FAR Part 107 (small unmanned aircraft systems) remain the same and recreational flyers may operate under FAR Part 107 rules if all requirements (including pilot certification) are met.
Contact us if you have questions by calling (503) 415-6068 or email us at drones@portofportland.com.
Resources for more information:
Operations for commercial or business purposes are classified as “commercial UAS operations” and subject 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. Basic requirements under FAR Part 107 include:
* Some requirements may be subject to FAA waiver
For more information visit: https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/fly_for_work_business/
This information 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.