Siena College Drone Rules: Recreational Drones Rules (2026)

Recreational drone operation in Albany County is governed primarily by FAA rules under the Exception for Recreational Flyers (49 USC §44809): registration required for drones over 0.55 lbs, TRUST test required, 400-foot altitude ceiling, visual line of sight, and no-fly near emergency response. Albany International Airport (ALB) in Colonie imposes Class D controlled airspace — flights within 5 miles require LAANC authorization through B4UFLY or an FAA waiver. The NYS Capitol, Empire State Plaza, and Governor's Mansion in Albany fall under NY State Police and NYS Office of General Services restrictions; launching drones from state-owned property without OGS permit is prohibited. City of Albany parks (Washington Park, Lincoln Park, Tivoli Preserve) prohibit drone launches under Parks Dept rules and Albany Code §269. Thacher State Park (Helderberg escarpment) requires OPRHP permit. SUNY Albany campus prohibits drones without prior approval. NY Civil Rights Law §52-a may apply if recordings capture individuals without consent.