Recreational Drones: New Rochelle vs White Plains
How do recreational drones rules compare between New Rochelle, NY and White Plains, NY?
New Rochelle and White Plains have similar restriction levels.
New Rochelle, NY
Westchester County
Recreational drone pilots must follow FAA Part 107 and recreational rules, register drones over 0.55 lbs, and pass the TRUST test. New Rochelle prohibits launching/landing drones in city parks without permit. Flights must stay under 400 ft AGL and away from emergencies and the LaGuardia/Westchester airspace shelf.
View full New Rochelle rules →White Plains, NY
Westchester County
Recreational drone pilots must pass the FAA TRUST test, register drones over 0.55 lb, and respect HPN (Westchester County Airport) airspace via B4UFLY/LAANC. Takeoff/landing from White Plains city parks is prohibited without a permit.
View full White Plains rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Rochelle | White Plains |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Law | 49 USC §44809 / FAA Part 107 | - |
| TRUST test | Required for rec. pilots | Required |
| Registration | Over 0.55 lb ($5, 3 yrs) | >0.55 lb with FAA |
| Remote ID | Required since Sept 2023 | - |
| Altitude | 400 ft AGL max | - |
| Airspace | LaGuardia Mode-C veil / HPN | HPN - LAANC required |
| Max altitude | - | 400 ft |
| Parks | - | Permit needed to launch |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New Rochelle FAQ
Can I fly my drone over Hudson Park?
Takeoff/landing from the park requires a Parks Dept. permit. Overflight must comply with FAA rules, Remote ID, and avoid crowds and the LaGuardia Class B shelf.
Do I need FAA registration for a small drone?
Yes, any drone over 0.55 lb (250 g) must be registered with the FAA and marked with the registration number.
White Plains FAQ
Where can I fly my drone recreationally in White Plains?
Only in open areas outside HPN's restricted airspace (rare in WP) or with LAANC authorization. Avoid city parks unless you have a permit.
Do I need to register my drone to fly in White Plains?
Yes. Drones over 0.55 lb must be registered with the FAA, and recreational pilots must pass the FAA TRUST test.
Why does Westchester County Airport affect drone flight in White Plains?
HPN's proximity places nearly all of White Plains within controlled airspace, so LAANC authorization is required before almost any recreational flight.
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