Recreational Drones: Arlington Heights vs Tinley Park
How do recreational drones rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Arlington Heights and Tinley Park have similar restriction levels.
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 →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park defers drone airspace to the FAA but prohibits drone operation in Tinley Park-Park District parks without authorization. Midway Class B airspace covers parts of the Village, requiring LAANC authorization.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| FAA | Federal rules apply | - |
| Forest Preserves | Permit required | - |
| Airports | O'Hare/Midway restricted | - |
| Max Altitude | 400 ft (recreational) | - |
| Airspace Authority | - | FAA (federal preemption) |
| Nearest Airspace | - | Midway Class B (~15 mi) |
| 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.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I fly my drone in a Tinley Park park?
No. The Tinley Park-Park District prohibits launching, landing, or operating drones in its parks without written permission.
Do I need LAANC authorization in Tinley Park?
Parts of the Village fall within Midway's Class B airspace shelf. Check the FAA's B4UFLY app before flying and obtain LAANC if in controlled airspace.
Can my neighbor fly a drone over my yard?
FAA controls airspace, but Illinois law restricts surveillance. Report harassment or persistent observation to Tinley Park Police.
Compare other topics
See how Arlington Heights and Tinley Park compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool