Illinois Commercial Drones Law: Statewide Drone Rules Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Federal rule: 14 CFR Part 107
Certification: Remote Pilot Certificate
State overlay: 725 ILCS 167/
Privacy statute: 720 ILCS 5/26-4
Local bans: Preempted on airspace

Full Breakdown

Commercial UAS operators must hold an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 107 and follow federal airspace rules. Illinois supplements federal authority through the Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act (725 ILCS 167/) and Criminal Code provisions in 720 ILCS 5/26-4 prohibiting unauthorized video recording. Local governments may not ban commercial drone flight operations because airspace is federally preempted. Property-owner consent is generally required for takeoff and landing on private land but not for transit through navigable airspace.

Violations & Penalties

Commercial flight without a Part 107 certificate, beyond visual line of sight without waiver, over people without compliant aircraft, or surveillance violating state privacy law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Part 107 license for commercial drone work in Illinois?

Yes. The FAA requires a Remote Pilot Certificate under 14 CFR Part 107 for any commercial drone operation, including paid photography, surveying, or inspection work in Illinois.

Can Illinois municipalities license commercial drone operators?

No. FAA airspace and pilot certification are federally preempted. Local governments may regulate use of city property for takeoff or landing but cannot license airspace operations or override Part 107.

Does Illinois have additional commercial drone privacy rules?

Yes. The Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act and 720 ILCS 5/26-4 prohibit unauthorized recording or surveillance of private property and create civil and criminal liability statewide.

Illinois Commercial Drone Operations Federal Preemption Rules

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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