The FAA has begun the rule making process to address the commercial use of unmanned aerial vehicles, otherwise known as drones. The proposed rule would allow the commercial use of drones in a variety of situations including real estate photography. The rule governs machines weighing 55 pounds or less. Some of the restrictions placed on operators include: daylight flights only; line of sight operations only; flights limited to an altitude of 500 feet; and operator certification by the FAA. The proposed rule does not require the operator to obtain a pilot's license.

The FAA asked for 60 days of public comment on its proposal for commercial drones, but industry experts expect the analysis of comments could take 18 months or longer before the rules are completed. For more information and updates on this issue, click here.