Commercial Drones: Des Plaines vs Schaumburg
How do commercial drones rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Schaumburg, IL?
Des Plaines and Schaumburg have similar restriction levels.
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 →Schaumburg, IL
Cook County
Commercial drone operations in Schaumburg require FAA Part 107 certification. Operators must obtain LAANC authorization due to proximity to O'Hare Airport and comply with all federal and Village regulations.
View full Schaumburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Schaumburg |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Certification | - | FAA Part 107 required |
| Airspace | - | LAANC authorization mandatory |
| Max Altitude | - | 400 feet AGL |
| Over People | - | Category 1–4 compliance |
| Max Fine | - | $27,500 per violation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Schaumburg FAQ
What license do I need to fly a drone commercially in Schaumburg?
You need an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107). This requires passing the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test and being at least 16 years old.
Can I do aerial photography for real estate in Schaumburg?
Yes, with a Part 107 certificate and LAANC authorization for the specific location. You must comply with all Part 107 operating rules including altitude and line-of-sight requirements.
Are there special restrictions near Woodfield Mall?
The Woodfield area may have additional airspace and security considerations. Always check LAANC for altitude restrictions and be aware that temporary flight restrictions may apply during major events.
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