Commercial Drones: Chicago vs Orland Park
How do commercial drones rules compare between Chicago, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Orland Park has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
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 →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Commercial drone operators must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and obtain LAANC authorization for Midway airspace covering Orland Park. Filming and surveying involving village property or events requires coordination with the village.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Village Permit | - | Required for filming on public property |
| LAANC Authorization | - | Required near Midway |
| Insurance | - | Required for village 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.
Orland Park FAQ
Do I need an Orland Park 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 need a village permit but must comply with FAA rules.
How do I get authorization to fly near Midway?
Use LAANC via approved apps such as Aloft or Airmap for near-instant FAA airspace authorization.
Can I fly over Orland Square Mall?
Flying over crowds or moving vehicles requires specific FAA waivers, and the property owner's written permission is required for operations over private commercial property.
Compare other topics
See how Chicago and Orland 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