A permit is required for commercial and government drone (Unmanned Aircraft Systems - UAS) operations in North Carolina. Recreational operators are required to register their UAS with the Federal Aviation Administration.

Operating Unmanned Aircraft Systems in North Carolina - North Carolina Department of Transportation 

Federal Aviation Administration UAS Rules & Regulations

Local Drone/Unmanned Aircraft Systems Rules & Regulations

Town of Nags Head Unmanned Aircraft (Drone) Us

Drones/UAS are prohibited in National Parks 

Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Cape Hatteras National Seashore is prohibited except as approved in writing by the superintendent. This includes the Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Wright Brothers National Memorial, Fort Raleigh Historic Site, Pea Island and beaches of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

The term “unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g. model airplanes, quadcopters, drones, model rockets) that are used for any purpose, including recreation or commerce.)

Helpful Links:

Drone Safety

Types of Drones & Drone Terms Glossary