The FAA's position is that commercial use of drones is illegal, unless specific permission has been granted by the FAA. However, the FAA has only granted permission in a handful of cases, mostly in remote locations for scientific uses. They have tried to heavily fine at least one drone operator, but the judge in the case sided with that pilot and cleared them, basically saying the FAA did not have jurisdiction since there are no laws specifically addressing the issue. The FAA is considering an appeal, last I heard.
If you are flying over your own property, or have permission to fly by the owner, and otherwise obey the FAA guidelines (stay below 400 feet, not fly near airports/restricted airspace, etc. ) one shoukld be OK.
Until a more official determination and laws are written, commercial drone operation is in a grey area right now. Many pilots still fly for pay in various capacities. As long as they fly responsibly and don't bring attention to themselves, usually it's not a big deal, yet. I just fly for the fun of it myself.
