Aerial photos can make your Easton listing stand out, but not every flight path or launch spot is legal. If you are planning drone shots in the White Mountains, you want clean, compliant footage without surprises. In this guide, you will learn what’s allowed, where you can launch, how to handle nearby airports, and what changes on January 1, 2026. Let’s dive in.
What counts as commercial
If you pay a photographer or use drone images for marketing, it is a commercial operation. The pilot should hold an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate and fly under Part 107 rules. You can review the FAA’s small UAS basics on the official FAA UAS portal.
Registration and Remote ID
Most drones that weigh 0.55 pounds or more must be registered with the FAA. You should also confirm how the aircraft meets Remote ID requirements, either through a Standard Remote ID drone or a broadcast module. The FAA outlines both registration and Remote ID compliance on the FAA UAS portal.
Airspace and airports
Before any flight, check airspace and secure authorization if needed. If controlled airspace is involved, Part 107 pilots typically use the FAA’s near real-time authorization system known as LAANC.
Easton sits near small public airfields, including Franconia Airport and Dean Memorial Airport. Recreational flyers have an additional step when flying within 5 miles of an airport. The FAA’s guidance for model aircraft requires prior notice to the airport operator, which is described in the federal notice on the “5‑mile” rule for recreational operations on Regulations.gov’s archive.
Launch and landing sites
Choosing a lawful launch and landing spot around Easton is critical.
- Private property: Get written permission from the owner before launch or landing. Sellers can provide this in writing for their listing.
- Town property: No Easton-wide drone ordinance was identified online, but towns can control use of their land. Seek written permission before using any town parcel.
- NH State Parks: Do not launch or land from state park land without a park permit. This includes Franconia Notch State Park. See the statewide policy on the New Hampshire State Parks site.
- White Mountain National Forest: Commercial UAS use generally requires a Special Use Permit, and there are specific no-landing restrictions in alpine zones, ski areas, and other listed sites. Review the current Forest Supervisor’s order and exhibits on the White Mountain National Forest notices page before planning a shoot.
- National Park Service and the Appalachian Trail: Do not launch, land, or operate from NPS-administered lands or waters. Learn more from the NPS unmanned aircraft policy.
Privacy and timing
Be a good neighbor while you capture the shot. Avoid hovering near windows or over people and vehicles, keep flights short, and stick to reasonable times. New Hampshire also prohibits using drones to surveil people who are lawfully hunting, fishing, or trapping without their consent. See RSA 207:57 on the state’s official statutes page.
Penalties and key dates
Unsafe or noncompliant UAS operations can trigger FAA enforcement. The safest path is simple: hire a Part 107 pilot, verify registration and Remote ID, and document your permissions and authorizations through the FAA’s systems.
New Hampshire also enacted HB 468, which adds state criminal penalties for unlawful small UAS use. It takes effect January 1, 2026. Review the bill text and effective date on LegiScan’s HB 468 page, and plan to operate conservatively.
Preflight checklist
Use this quick list for Easton listings that want aerials:
- Confirm commercial status: Require a Part 107 pilot with a valid Remote Pilot Certificate.
- Verify FAA registration and Remote ID compliance for the aircraft.
- Run an airspace check and obtain any required LAANC authorization. Recreational flyers should handle 5‑mile airport notice where applicable.
- Secure written seller permission to launch and land on the property. Avoid public land launches unless you have agency permission.
- Stay clear of NH State Parks, restricted White Mountain National Forest areas, and NPS lands unless you have written permits.
- Keep records: pilot certificate, registration, insurance, permissions, and any airspace authorizations.
How Bel Casa helps
You deserve aerials that elevate your listing and protect you from headaches. As a locally rooted, marketing-forward brokerage, we help you plan a compliant shoot, coordinate with properly credentialed pilots, and keep the paperwork tidy so you can focus on selling.
Ready to showcase your Easton property the right way? Connect with Bel Casa Realty for trusted local guidance and premium listing marketing.
FAQs
Are drones allowed for Easton NH real estate listings?
- Yes, if you follow FAA rules for commercial operations under Part 107, including a certified pilot, proper registration, Remote ID, airspace checks, and lawful launch and landing sites.
Can I launch from Franconia Notch or trailheads nearby?
- No, New Hampshire State Parks prohibit drone takeoff and landing without permission, and White Mountain National Forest has additional location-based restrictions and permit requirements for commercial use.
Do I need neighbor permission to fly over their property?
- The FAA governs navigable airspace, but you should avoid hovering near private areas, get written permission for any private launch or landing site, and keep flight paths respectful to reduce complaints.
What should I ask a drone operator before hiring?
- Ask for their Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, aircraft registration, Remote ID compliance, insurance proof, airspace plan or LAANC authorization, and written permission for the chosen launch and landing location.
What changes on January 1, 2026 in New Hampshire?
- HB 468 takes effect and adds state criminal offenses for unlawful small UAS operations, so you should continue strict FAA compliance and plan conservatively as those state penalties begin to apply.
