Listen-up Drone Flyers ,If you got a drone over the holidays ? or you gave one as a gift ? there’s more involved than the joy of opening this gift.

As of Dec. 21, the Federal Aviation Administration has required owners of small unmanned aircraft systems (DRONE) to register before you fly them. A Drone is not a mere toy anymore and failure to register the aircraft may result in regulatory and criminal penalties. The Federal Aviation Association (FAA) may assess civil penalties up to $27,500. These penalties could include fines of up to $250,000 or imprisonment for up to three years, says the agency’s website.

According to The FAA estimated there were more than one million drones sold this holiday season.The laws came about as a result of complaints of Airline Pilot and the threat it poses to aviation safety . Series of near misses were reported over the pass year .One of the most widely publicized was July 17, on Interstate 15 in the Cajon Pass. A civilian drones flying near firefighting aircraft forced the firefighter aircraft to leave the area as flames swept across the freeway and 20 vehicles caught on fire.

What About Insurance?

“Every drone pilot should check with their insurance agent before they lift off,” Dave Jones, insurance commissioner, said in a statement. “Drone hobbyists share the same level of responsibility as manned aircraft pilots to fly safely and make sure they’re covered if their drone causes property damage or bodily injury.”

Your drone as a hobby is likely covered by homeowner or renter insurance, but the state agency recommends drone owners confirm their coverage before flying.

What is the registration Fee?

Owners must register small unmanned aircraft systems weighing anywhere from about nine ounces (0.55 pounds) to 55 pounds.The FAA registration costs $5, but the $5 fee will be refunded for payments made until Jan 20.