Commercial Drones: Chicago vs Des Plaines
How do commercial drones rules compare between Chicago, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Chicago and Des Plaines have similar restriction levels.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Commercial drone operations in Chicago require FAA Part 107 certification and must comply with MCC 10-36-400. Chicago's local restrictions on proximity to infrastructure and surveillance apply alongside federal requirements.
View full Chicago rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Commercial drone operators in Des Plaines must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and obtain LAANC authorization for nearly every flight due to O'Hare Class B airspace. Operations on city property or involving filming may also require a Des Plaines film/special-event permit.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Requirement | FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate | - |
| Chicago Code | MCC 10-36-400 | - |
| Airport Airspace | LAANC authorization required near O'Hare/Midway | - |
| Film Permits | May be required for commercial photography | - |
| FAA Fine Max | $32,666 per violation | - |
| FAA Certification | - | Part 107 required |
| LAANC | - | Required - O'Hare Class B |
| Many areas | - | 0 ft AGL ceiling - waiver needed |
| City Permit | - | May be required for filming |
| Insurance | - | Required for city permits |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
What do I need to fly a commercial drone in Chicago?
An FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107), compliance with MCC 10-36-400, and potentially LAANC authorization if operating in controlled airspace near airports. Film and photography permits may be needed from the Chicago Film Office.
Can I fly a commercial drone near downtown Chicago?
Downtown Chicago has some restricted and controlled airspace. You need LAANC authorization and must comply with all Part 107 rules plus MCC 10-36-400 restrictions on proximity to critical infrastructure.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I do real estate drone photography in Des Plaines?
Yes, with a Part 107 certificate and LAANC authorization, but expect many properties to fall in 0 ft grids requiring an FAA airspace waiver that can take 60-90 days.
Do I need a city permit?
Operations on private property generally do not require a city permit, but filming on public streets, in parks, or for advertising production typically requires a Des Plaines film/special-event permit.
Can I fly near Rivers Casino?
It is in restricted airspace adjacent to O'Hare and on private property. You need the casino's written permission plus FAA airspace authorization.
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