Recreational Drones: Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do recreational drones rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Des Plaines.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Recreational drones in Cook County are primarily regulated by FAA rules. Cook County Forest Preserves prohibit drone use without a permit. O'Hare and Midway airports create restricted airspace over much of Cook County.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines defers drone airspace regulation to the FAA, but the city sits directly under O'Hare's Class B airspace, so virtually all flights require LAANC authorization. Drone use in Des Plaines parks is prohibited without Park District permission.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| FAA | Federal rules apply | - |
| Forest Preserves | Permit required | - |
| Airports | O'Hare/Midway restricted | - |
| Max Altitude | 400 ft (recreational) | - |
| Airspace Authority | - | FAA (federal preemption) |
| Airspace Class | - | Class B (O'Hare) - LAANC required |
| Park Operation | - | Prohibited without permit |
| Registration | - | Required for drones over 0.55 lb |
| State Surveillance Law | - | 725 ILCS 167 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I fly a drone in Cook County?
Yes, subject to FAA rules. Much of Cook County has restricted airspace due to O'Hare and Midway airports requiring LAANC authorization. Forest Preserves require a permit.
Can I fly a drone in Cook County Forest Preserves?
Not without a special permit from the Forest Preserve District General Superintendent. Unauthorized drone use in preserves is prohibited.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I fly my drone in my Des Plaines backyard?
Only with LAANC authorization. Most of Des Plaines is in O'Hare's Class B airspace and many grid squares are limited to 0 feet AGL, meaning no flight is permitted without specific FAA approval.
Do I need to register my drone?
Yes, the FAA requires registration of any drone weighing more than 0.55 lb. Recreational pilots must also pass the TRUST safety test.
Can I fly in Lake Park or Lake Opeka?
No. The Des Plaines Park District prohibits drone takeoffs and landings in district parks without written permission.
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