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Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones)

Research Compliance

Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS) operations at Cal State Monterey Bay are managed to ensure safety, regulatory compliance and responsible use. Recreational drone flights are not permitted on university property. All drone flights conducted on campus or for Cal State Monterey Bay purposes, whether on or off site must receive advance approval with this including flights for teaching, research, videography, surveying, promotional activities or contractor services.

Operators are required to follow all Federal Aviation Administration regulations, including Part 107 and Remote ID requirements, and must submit complete documentation prior to flight. These guidelines help protect our community, support academic and research innovation and ensure that all drone activity aligns with university and federal standards. Again recreational (unlicensed) sUAS flight is prohibited on CSUMB property by CSUMB and FAA rules.

Please see the Cal State Monterey Bay UAS FAQ for more information or if you are unsure if flight approval is required. More information regarding UAS at CSU can be found on the CSU GIS Specialty Center website. Along with more information below on this page.

A successful Flight Request must include:

  • Pilot in Charge (PIC) is FAA 14 CFR Part 107 certified, COA or Section 333 exempt
  • sUAS is FAA registered and registration number is legibly displayed on aircraft
  • Detailed sUAS specifications
  • Flight plan including map
  • Evidence of insurance if non-CSUMB entity
  • Flight complies with all requirements and limitations of FAA 14 CFR Part 107 or appropriate waivers in place [including Remote Identification (RID) requirements]

To request UAS flight approval, please make sure the above conditions are satisfied, and if you are a Cal State Monterey Bay community member (you have an OtterID) use the CSU Drones App to register as a pilot, register your aircraft, and file your request. Non-Cal State Monterey Bay operators must use the CSUMB sUAS Flight Request Form for outside entities. Whether the Drones App or form is used, the flight request and all required documentation must be submitted at least 5 full working days prior to your proposed flight. Below are the common FAQ's and how to request a flight.

CSU Drones App (OtterID Required)

More Information and Resources

To request approval for a UAS flight:

Submit your request at least five full business days before the planned flight. If flying near residential areas or submitting insurance documentation, allow seven business days.

For approval, your request must include:

  • Proof of FAA Part 107 certification or valid COA/Section 333 exemption
  • FAA registration number (clearly marked on aircraft)
  • Detailed sUAS specifications
  • Complete flight plan with coordinates and map
  • Proof of insurance (for non-CSUMB operators)
  • Compliance with FAA regulations, including Remote ID rules

If you have questions, please email uassafety@csumb.edu.

Can I fly a drone recreationally at CSUMB?

No. Recreational or hobbyist drone flights are prohibited by CSUMB and FAA rules.

I’m flying off campus. Do I still need approval?

Yes, if your flight is connected to CSUMB (e.g., academic, research or promotional use). Flights not affiliated with CSUMB do not require university approval.

I’m a contractor flying for a CSUMB project. Do I need approval?

Yes. All UAS flights on behalf of CSUMB on or off campus requires approval through the appropriate process.

What is the Otter LZ?

The Otter LZ is CSUMB’s dedicated drone flight area, designed for testing, instruction and data collection. It is FAA-recognized as a FRIA (FAA-Recognized Identification Area) and features permanent ground control points for precise mapping.

What happens after my flight is approved?

  • Fly only at your approved time and location
  • Follow all FAA Part 107 rules
  • Report incidents immediately to uassafety@csumb.edu
  • Submit your post-flight report within three days

Outside entities must provide proof of:

  • Aviation Liability Insurance — $1M per occurrence, $2M aggregate
  • General Liability Insurance — $2M per occurrence
  • Workers’ Compensation — As required by California law

Additional requirements:

  • CSUMB and its affiliated organizations must be listed as additional insured
  • Coverage must be primary and non-contributory
  • Policy must include a 30-day notice of cancellation

Questions about insurance? Contact CSUMB Risk Management.

Otter LZ Weather Dashboard

This live dashboard from Ambient Weather provides real-time weather data for Cal State Monterey Bay's Otter LZ drone flight area. It displays current conditions such as temperature, wind speed, humidity and barometric pressure.

View the Otter LZ Weather Dashboard.

LAANC and the FAA

The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) website provides drone pilots with access to real-time airspace authorizations in controlled airspace at or below 400 feet.

Visit the LAANC website.