In short
In the Denver metro, commercial drone mapping typically starts around $1,500 for a site up to 10 acres, with per-acre pricing beyond that. Thermal roof inspections start around $650. Final price depends on site size, the deliverables you need, required accuracy, and turnaround. Reputable providers quote a fixed, all-in price up front.
What drives the price
Drone data is priced per project, not per hour, and a few things move the number. Site size is the obvious one (more acres, more flight and processing). The deliverables matter just as much: a simple orthomosaic is less than a job that also needs a terrain model, contours, and stockpile volumes.
Accuracy is the quiet driver. Survey-grade ground control and RTK/PPK take more time on site and in processing than a quick visual map, and that shows up in the price, because it shows up in how usable the data is.
Finally, turnaround and frequency: rush delivery costs more, and a recurring monthly program usually earns a lower per-flight rate than one-off flights.
Typical starting points in the Denver metro
As a rough guide for the south Denver metro and Douglas County: commercial site mapping starts around $1,500 for up to 10 acres; thermal roof inspections start around $650 per building; LiDAR and multispectral work is quoted by scope. These are starting points, your quote depends on the specifics.
Watch for a no-mobilization-fee radius. Locally based providers often waive travel within ~30 miles, which a provider driving up from elsewhere can't.
How to compare quotes fairly
The cheapest quote often isn't measuring the same thing. Before comparing numbers, make sure each quote lists the same deliverables, the same accuracy control, and the same turnaround. A $900 'map' with no ground control and a $1,600 map with RTK control are not competing products.
Ask for a fixed, all-in quote so there are no surprise add-ons after the flight.
Frequently asked
Is drone mapping cheaper than traditional methods?
For most site-scale work, drone mapping captures far more data per dollar and far faster than walking a site, while keeping crews off hazards. For a legal boundary survey you still need a licensed surveyor; drone data complements that work rather than replacing it.
Do you charge for travel?
Blue Nose Aerial Imaging of Castle Pines charges no mobilization fee within 30 miles of Castle Pines. Beyond that, travel is billed at standard mileage and disclosed in the quote up front.
Can I get a fixed price before the flight?
Yes. We scope the deliverable and accuracy with you and send a fixed, all-in quote before any work begins, with no hidden fees.
Still not sure what you need?
Tell us about your site and we'll point you to the right approach, then send a fixed quote.