Recreational drone use is governed by FAA 14 CFR Part 107 and the Recreational UAS Safety Test. MA state parks and Middlesex County conservation lands restrict takeoff and landing.
Drone operation in Middlesex County is preempted on airspace matters by the Federal Aviation Administration under 49 USC 40103 and 14 CFR Part 107 for commercial operators and the Exception for Limited Recreational Operations of Unmanned Aircraft under 49 USC 44809 for hobbyists. All drones over 0.55 lb must be registered with FAA. Hobbyists must pass the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) and follow community-based guidelines. Boston Logan International Airport Class B airspace covers much of eastern Middlesex County requiring LAANC authorization. Additional restrictions apply over Hanscom Field and Lawrence Municipal Airport. Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) prohibits launching or landing drones in state parks, state forests, and DCR parkways without permit (302 CMR 12.00). Middlesex County municipalities may regulate takeoff and landing on municipal property but cannot regulate airspace. Privacy laws under MGL c.272 s.105 prohibit secretly photographing persons in private places.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Middlesex County.
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