Commercial Drones: Arlington Heights vs Skokie
How do commercial drones rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Skokie, IL?
Arlington Heights and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Commercial drone operations in Cook County require an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. O'Hare and Midway airspace restrictions significantly affect operations. State law (620 ILCS 5) adds Illinois-specific drone provisions.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Commercial drone operators in Skokie must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and comply with federal airspace rules. Filming and surveying over village property or events generally requires coordination with the village and may require a filming permit.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| License | FAA Part 107 required | - |
| Airspace | LAANC/waiver for controlled | - |
| State Law | 620 ILCS 5 | - |
| FAA Fine | Up to $32,666 | - |
| FAA Certification | - | Part 107 required |
| Village Permit | - | May be required for filming |
| LAANC Authorization | - | Required near O'Hare |
| Insurance | - | Required for village permits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I operate a drone commercially in Cook County?
Yes, with an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Most of Cook County requires LAANC authorization due to O'Hare and Midway airport airspace.
Do I need additional permits beyond FAA?
Forest Preserve operations need a district permit. Illinois law adds state requirements. Commercial drone businesses must comply with county zoning for their base of operations.
Skokie FAQ
Do I need a Skokie permit for commercial drone work?
If the operation involves village property, street closures, or filming on public rights-of-way, a film permit is required. Private property work generally does not require a village permit but must comply with FAA rules.
How do I get authorization to fly near O'Hare?
Use the FAA's LAANC system via approved apps like Aloft or Airmap to receive near-instant airspace authorization for controlled airspace.
Can I fly over the Old Orchard shopping center?
Flying over crowds or moving vehicles requires specific FAA waivers. Commercial operations over the mall require written permission from the property owner and FAA compliance.
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