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.
FAA Part 107 governs all commercial drone operations in Des Plaines. Operators need a Remote Pilot Certificate, current drone registration, and LAANC airspace authorization for the Class B airspace surrounding O'Hare International Airport. Many UAS Facility Map grids over Des Plaines have a 0 ft AGL ceiling, requiring a Part 107 airspace waiver from the FAA Air Traffic Organization rather than instant LAANC. The City of Des Plaines may require a film or special event permit when operations involve city property, public rights-of-way, or street closures, processed through the City Manager's office. Operators around Rivers Casino, the Des Plaines River corridor, and rail corridors must coordinate with property owners and Metra/Union Pacific. Liability insurance is typically required for any city permit.
FAA fines up to $27,500 per violation for Part 107 infractions and up to $75,000 for endangering aircraft near O'Hare. City permit violations $250-$750 per occurrence.
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