When applying pesticides using drones, several requirements must be met by the pesticide applicator prior to application. Below are the steps to meet those requirements. NOTE: if the pesticide label indicates for ground use only, it may not be applied using a drone. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released new rules concerning drones.
Step 1: Certification
To apply pesticides using drones, you first need certification for the area of application. Below are the specific certification categories for common application areas.
- Obtain a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Eligibility requirements listed on FAA’s website.
- Pass the Unmanned Aircraft Genera – Small (UAG) exam.
- Complete the FFA 137 application to apply pesticides or fertilizers.
- Flying recreational drones
- Flying drones conducting a business more information is located on this site and TDOT’s site
- Private Applicator certification needed only if applying to your property. FAA may require an FAA license
- If applications are made for a fee on a farm or nursery, it requires category 1 (agriculture) and AER license
- If applications are made for a fee in forestry, it requires category 2 (Forest Pest Control) and AER license
- If applications are made to a right-of-way (powerlines, railways, pipelines, etc.) it requires category 6 certification and AER license, if a fee is being charged.
- You may want to consider obtaining $100,000 liability insurance, but is required if charging a fee.
Learn how to become a Commercial Applicator.
Learn how to become a licensed pest control operator.
Step 2: Aerial License
You must also obtain an Aerial Applicator license (Aerial License, AER). Currently, you must have a pilot’s license to obtain the Aerial Applicator license.
Learn more about obtaining the Aerial License and find required forms, etc. (Found under Additional Requirements heading)
Step 3: Aerial Decal needed – if charging a fee
If you are charging a fee to control pests, you will need to meet TDA’s requirements for Certification and Licensing..
State Regulations and more..
For more information, you may contact the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) at 615-837-5148. Learn more about Certification and Licensing from TDA.
Drone study guide video for FAA Part 107 sUAS Test here:
Tennessee’s insurance requirement: see Tennessee’s code of annotations 43-8-304.
FAA drone study guide in PDF format.
Insurance companies: STRAVA, WRK of Arkansas, VT Insurance
Additional information
National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA)
Visit the “Licensing” page and scroll down to “Additional Requirements”
Federal Aviation Administration
Unmanned Aerial Pesticide Application System Task Force
Information concering a “drone starter kit” published in the “Prairie Farmer”
The Evolution of Spray Drones, Purdue’s publication PPP-154
