Drone operators in Hennepin County must follow FAA rules near MSP Airport, HCMC's helipad, and other controlled airspace, including LAANC authorization and special use restrictions.
FAA Part 107 governs commercial drone operations and Part 44809 governs recreational flights throughout Hennepin County. MSP Airport's Class B and C airspace covers most of Bloomington, Richfield, Minneapolis, and parts of Edina, requiring LAANC authorization before flight. HCMC and other Minneapolis hospital helipads create temporary flight restrictions during medical operations. Three Rivers Park District and Minneapolis Park Board prohibit drone takeoffs and landings on most park property without permits. Minn. Stat. 360.59 governs aircraft including drones at the state level. Operators must register drones over 0.55 pounds with the FAA and respect privacy rules.
FAA enforcement can include civil penalties up to 27,500 dollars and criminal charges; park violations carry separate citations.
See how Hennepin County's airport proximity rules rules stack up against other locations.
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