Steps to Starting a Spray Drone Business

In the agricultural industry, there is a strong and growing demand for crop inputs applied with spray drones, driven by the increasing adoption of precision agriculture technologies. The need for efficient and precise application of crop inputs has never been greater, with farmers and retailers constantly seeking innovative solutions to stay ahead of insect, disease and weed pressure, and cover crop seeding. This is where spray drones come into play.

Starting a spray drone business – while an exciting new opportunity – goes well beyond the purchase of a spray drone alone. We've created a comprehensive checklist as a guide to building a strong business foundation. We recommend following these steps in the order listed below for the most streamlined process.

Steps to Starting a Spray Drone Business

• Research the drone and equipment that best suits your operation.
• We offer industry-leading drone equipment including DJI and XAG spray drones.

• After choosing a drone, consider applying for financing, if necessary.
• Check out our Services page for more information on our financing options through partner-provided services.

• Obtain your Part 107 license.
• Need help? We offer a discount on study materials for your Part 107 certification exam at this link.

• Set up an appointment to obtain  a Class 3 medical certificate.
• 💡 Pro tip: Obtain your Part 107 and Class 3 medical certificate before purchasing the drone.
  

• Purchase the drone, including all necessary parts and accessories, to start flying.
• We've got an online parts and accessories store for that. 

• Register your drone and get an N-Number.
• 💡 Pro tip: You must buy and register your drone before you can file for a 44807 petition.

• Research and buy a support package that best caters to your business.
• Need support? We can help.

• File a 44807 petition for exemption and application for a Part 137 certificate.
• We offer licensing assistance to help with the management and preparation of these FAA-required documents.

• Obtain or renew your State and Aerial Pesticide Applicators licenses, as applicable.
• Varies by state.

• Schedule and complete the necessary education needed to fly your drone.
• This will be determined by your operation's Chief Supervisor of Agricultural Operations.

• Make sure your business has the appropriate insurance coverage.
• You can find our comprehensive insurance coverage bundle available at this link.

• Purchase AcreConnect™ software as a tool to better manage your season.
• Manage your spray season with AcreConnect™. Create your free account and get a 30-day free trial at this link.

• Become familiar with compliance and recordkeeping requirements for each flight.
• Check out our recordkeeping blog and monthly reporting blog for helpful tips.

• Get Flying!

Ready to get started? Contact Rantizo at sales@rantizo.com or call 319-201-3020 ext. 1 for more information. 

More Resources:

• Check out our complete Drone Guide for additional information on how spray drones can benefit your business, startup costs and potential ROI, FAA regulatory and compliance guidelines, and more. Download and access our free Drone Guide by completing the form at this link.