New to flying drones and trying to figure out LAANC approval. I know I need it, but how do I make the green box bigger? I want to fly throughout my city. Do I need to submit multiple requests to cover all the areas I plan to fly?
You can make the polygon as large as you need and set your max altitude. The app will let you know if you’re requesting too much. Just remember, you still need to maintain visual line of sight, so you may have to launch from different locations. No harm in asking for a big area!
@Starry
Oh my god, this is exactly what I needed to know! I didn’t want to have to submit a new request every time I drove to a new spot. If I can just make the polygon bigger, that’s perfect.
As for line of sight, that won’t be a problem. I’m new to this, so I’m paranoid about losing the drone. I’ll always keep it in view. Appreciate the help!!!
@Payton
Just keep in mind that battery life will limit how far you can go, and some areas may have additional restrictions, especially near airports, government buildings, and events. Have fun, and don’t crash!
It’s actually better to request approval for each specific area when you arrive. That way, it logs exactly where you are instead of a broad city-wide request. It’s automated, so you’re not bothering anyone, and you can cancel one request before moving to the next.
@Ray
Thanks for the tip!
Heads up—if you’re in LA, you’ll need a filming permit. If you don’t want a fine, be careful!
Flynn said:
Heads up—if you’re in LA, you’ll need a filming permit. If you don’t want a fine, be careful!
Even with a Mini 3 Pro for recreational use?
Flynn said:
Heads up—if you’re in LA, you’ll need a filming permit. If you don’t want a fine, be careful!
Even with a Mini 3 Pro for recreational use?
Yep, LA requires a permit for both ground and aerial filming, even recreationally. Your best bet is to fly outside the city or in the outskirts of LA/Orange County.
@Flynn
Got it, thanks for the heads-up!
Payton said:
@Flynn
Got it, thanks for the heads-up!
No problem!
You need to stay within line of sight anyway, so just request LAANC approval as you move locations. If you’re in an auto-approval zone, you’ll get approval in about a minute.
You can request up to 10 square miles for up to 12 hours. If it’s an auto-approval zone, I usually go for a big area so I don’t have to keep submitting requests.
Just be careful—if your request overlaps multiple grid heights, the entire area will be restricted to the lowest one.