Salt Creek Beach - Dana Point California - Aerial Drone Travel Video And Photography
Salt Creek Beach | Dana Point | California
I started this little excursion to Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point, California, with the simple intention of just ripping through a couple of DJI Mavic batteries and then heading out within 15 minutes. However, what greeted me was far more captivating—the ocean was exceptionally well exposed, and the waves were consistently overhead, crashing powerfully along the shore! The whole area carries a unique, almost magnetic feel, especially since the
Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point, California is a popular location for drone photography and videography. Several stock video and image sites offer aerial footage of the area (Getty Images, Dreamstime, Pond5). You can also find drone tours of Dana Point, including Salt Creek Beach, on YouTube.
When it comes to drone laws and permits for commercial use, it's important to be aware of both federal and local regulations:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations: For commercial purposes, you need an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and your drone must be registered if it weighs over 250 grams. You must fly below 400 feet, maintain visual line of sight, and not interfere with manned aircraft.
California State Laws: California has additional laws regarding privacy, trespassing, and interference with emergency responders. It's illegal to use a drone to capture images or video of someone without their consent in areas where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Orange County and Dana Point Specifics:
Orange County Parks generally prohibit the use of drones (and all motorized vehicles and equipment) in their parks, beaches, and recreational areas. Salt Creek Beach Park is managed by OC Parks.
The City of Dana Point requires Film, Video and Still-Photography Permits for all professional filming activities, including those with drones, except for personal non-commercial use or news media. The application fee is $515.
California State Parks generally allow drones except where prohibited by a District Superintendent's posted order. Commercial drone operations in State Parks also require a permit from the California Film Commission.
Given that Salt Creek Beach Park is an OC Parks facility, and OC Parks generally prohibits drones, it is highly likely that commercial drone operations would require specific permits and approvals from both OC Parks and the City of Dana Point, in addition to adhering to FAA regulations. It's recommended to contact OC Parks Permits at (866) 627-2757 or permits@ocparks.com, and the City of Dana Point Planning Division at (949) 248-3521 for specific requirements.
