Airport Proximity Rules: Arlington Heights vs Chicago

Can I fly a drone in my Cook County backyard near O'Hare?

Only with LAANC authorization through the B4UFLY or DroneZone app. The UAS Facility Map shows the maximum altitude allowed for your grid square. Many areas near O'Hare have a 0-foot ceiling, effectively prohibiting flight without a special waiver.

Does Cook County have its own drone airspace rules?

No. Airspace regulation is exclusively federal under 49 USC 40103. Cook County and municipalities can regulate where drones take off, land, and operate from local property but cannot lawfully restrict altitudes or aerial pathways once the drone is airborne.

What is LAANC?

Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability is the FAA system providing near-real-time airspace authorizations for drone flights in controlled airspace. Authorizations come through approved third-party apps and last for the time and altitude requested by the pilot.

Can the city ban drones near O'Hare?

Federal law preempts local airspace regulation, but the City and CDA can prohibit takeoff and landing from Chicago property. CPD can also enforce local trespass and reckless conduct charges supporting FAA cases.

Do hobby pilots need LAANC?

Yes. Since 2021, recreational pilots flying in controlled airspace must obtain LAANC authorization through approved apps, just as Part 107 commercial pilots do. The TRUST test is also required for recreational flight.