Drone Rules in Lake County, IL (2026)

2 rules for unincorporated Lake County, Illinois.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Lake County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply — see the city list below.

Recreational Drones

Lake County IL recreational drone use follows FAA rules under 49 USC §44809 and the Illinois Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act (725 ILCS 167). FAA registration required for drones over 0.55 lbs, 400 ft max altitude, TRUST certificate required. O'Hare Class B airspace restricts most of southern Lake County; Waukegan National Airport creates additional controlled airspace. Forest Preserves ban drone launches.

drones/recreational-drones

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Commercial Drones

Lake County IL commercial drone operators must hold FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. O'Hare Class B airspace, Waukegan National and Chicago Executive require LAANC authorization. Municipal filming permits required in Waukegan, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Gurnee. Illinois Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act (725 ILCS 167) and Private Detective Act (225 ILCS 447) apply to surveillance/inspection work.

drones/commercial-drones

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Lake County ordinances

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