Recreational Drones: White Plains vs Yonkers
How do recreational drones rules compare between White Plains, NY and Yonkers, NY?
Yonkers has fewer restrictions than White Plains.
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 →Yonkers, NY
Westchester County
Recreational drone pilots must follow FAA rules: pass the TRUST test, register drones >0.55 lbs, and fly within visual line of sight below 400 ft. Yonkers parks restrict launch/landing.
View full Yonkers rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | White Plains | Yonkers |
|---|---|---|
| TRUST test | Required | - |
| Registration | >0.55 lb with FAA | >0.55 lbs |
| Max altitude | 400 ft | - |
| Airspace | HPN - LAANC required | - |
| Parks | Permit needed to launch | - |
| FAA Test | - | TRUST required |
| Altitude | - | Below 400 ft |
| Remote ID | - | Required |
| City Parks | - | Launch restricted |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Yonkers FAQ
Can I fly my hobby drone from my yard?
Yes, following FAA rules and community-based guidelines. Do not fly over people or from Yonkers city parks without permission.
Do I need to pass a test to fly a hobby drone in Yonkers?
Yes. Under 49 USC §44809, recreational flyers must take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and follow community-based organization safety guidelines.
How high can I fly my recreational drone in Yonkers?
Below 400 feet and within visual line of sight. Drones over 0.55 lbs must be registered with the FAA and comply with Remote ID rules effective September 2023.
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