Recreational drone use in Boston is primarily governed by FAA regulations. Boston falls within restricted airspace near Logan Airport, requiring LAANC authorization for most flights. City parks prohibit drone use without Parks Department permission. Drones must be registered with the FAA and operators must pass the TRUST recreational safety test.
Recreational drone operation in Boston is heavily constrained by the city's proximity to Logan International Airport. Most of Boston lies within the FAA's controlled airspace (Class B), requiring Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) approval for any flight. The FAA requires all drones weighing between 0.55 and 55 pounds to be registered. Recreational operators must pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST). Flights must stay below 400 feet AGL, within visual line of sight, and away from other aircraft. Boston's Parks and Recreation Department prohibits drone operation in city parks, playgrounds, and cemeteries without prior written permission. Flying over crowds, sporting events, and emergency response scenes is prohibited by FAA rules. The city does not have a separate drone ordinance but enforces FAA regulations and park rules. Privacy concerns about drone surveillance are addressed through Massachusetts wiretapping laws (MGL c.272 §99) if recording private activities.
FAA violations for unregistered drones or unauthorized airspace use carry civil penalties up to $27,500. Flying in city parks without permission may result in removal and potential trespass charges. Reckless drone operation endangering persons or property can result in criminal charges.
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