Des Plaines defers drone airspace regulation to the FAA, but the city sits directly under O'Hare's Class B airspace, so virtually all flights require LAANC authorization. Drone use in Des Plaines parks is prohibited without Park District permission.
Federal Aviation Administration rules preempt local regulation of drone flight in Des Plaines. Recreational operators must follow the FAA Recreational Flyer rules (49 USC 44809), pass the TRUST test, register drones over 0.55 lb, and fly below 400 feet away from manned aircraft. Because Des Plaines is immediately adjacent to O'Hare International Airport, nearly the entire city falls within Class B controlled airspace and pilots must obtain LAANC authorization before each flight; many areas are restricted to 0 feet AGL on the FAA UAS Facility Map. The Des Plaines Park District prohibits operation of drones from district parks without written permission. Reckless operation may also be prosecuted under city nuisance and disorderly conduct ordinances, and the Illinois Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act (725 ILCS 167) restricts surveillance use by law enforcement.
Park District citations $75-$500 for drone use in parks without permit. FAA enforcement and civil penalties up to $27,500 for airspace violations near O'Hare. Privacy violations under Illinois law may result in civil damages.
Des Plaines, IL
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