Recreational Drones: Des Plaines vs Orland Park
How do recreational drones rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Orland Park, IL?
Orland Park has fewer restrictions than Des Plaines.
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 →Orland Park, IL
Cook County
Orland Park defers drone airspace regulation to the FAA but prohibits drone operation in village parks and over public events without authorization. Midway International Airport's Class B/D airspace covers parts of the village requiring LAANC authorization.
View full Orland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Orland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Airspace Authority | FAA (federal preemption) | FAA (federal preemption) |
| Airspace Class | Class B (O'Hare) - LAANC required | Midway Class B/D coverage |
| Park Operation | Prohibited without permit | Prohibited without permit |
| Registration | Required for drones over 0.55 lb | Required for drones over 0.55 lb |
| State Surveillance Law | 725 ILCS 167 | 725 ILCS 167 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Orland Park FAQ
Can I fly my drone in an Orland Park village park?
No. The Orland Park Recreation Department prohibits launching, landing, or operating drones in village parks without prior written permission.
Do I need FAA authorization to fly in Orland Park?
Most of Orland Park lies within Midway Airport's controlled airspace. Use LAANC via Aloft or Airmap to receive authorization before flight.
Can my neighbor fly a drone over my yard?
FAA controls airspace, but Illinois law restricts surveillance and persistent observation. Report harassment to Orland Park Police.
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