Drone Laws in NYC

Agencies Responsible for regulating drones in New York City

Federal Aviation Administration

FAA Drone Website: https://www.faa.gov/uas/

NY State Assembly – Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation – Regulating Unmanned Aircraft Systems

UAS Laws – General rules for flying drones in NY City

Drone operation in NY City is broadly governed by The Federal USA agency responsible for drone safety, the FAA. The NY State and City legislature have enacted several supplemental rules specific to NY City drone operations. The highlights are enumerated below. For more details go to the links above.

Specific additional laws for NYC

New York City Drone Regulations – Administrative code makes it unlawful for any person navigating drones to take off or land, except in an emergency, at any place within the limits of the city other than places of landing designated by the department of transportation or the port of New York authority.  The rule serves to limit take-off and landings to regulated heliports and airports. The city later created a general restriction declaring all drone flights in New York City illegal.

Changes Coming in the Future

New York State Legislature has taken up and are considering a number of proposed bills. We highly recommend checking with the local jurisdiction for the latest information.

Notes For Drone Hobbyists flying for fun in NYC

If you have a small drone that is less than 55 pounds, you can fly recreationally by following the Drone Laws in the USA defined by FAA Part 107 guidelines, however, NY City has specific restrictions listed below.

Recreational drone operations in NY City are approved under FAA Part 107 but restricted in NY City as per local rules. Please check the specific city and state jurisdiction for additional permissions, licensing, or clearance requirements.

Hobbyist rules in Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

The recreational flying of toy or model rockets or aircraft (types of UAS) is subject to 9 NYCRR Section 372.7(j) and in the Palisades Region to 9 NYCRR Section 409.1(j). Under these regulations and this procedure, the launching, landing or operation of a UAS for recreational purposes from or on lands and waters administered by OPRHP is an activity that requires an operator to apply for a special UAS permit that shall include conditions outlining the time, place and manner of use.

Locations listed by New York City Parks with more details on where drones allowed or not: NY City Parks Drone Website

Notes for Commercial Drone Services operations in NYC

If you have a small drone that is less than 55 pounds, you can fly for work or business by following the Drone Laws in the USA defined by FAA Part 107 guidelines, however, NY City has specific restrictions listed below.

Commercial drone operations in NY State are approved under the FAA Part 107but restricted in NY City as per local rules. Please check the specific state jurisdiction for additional permissions, licensing, or clearance requirements.

Commercial rules in Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

The use of a UAS for commercial purposes is authorized by PRHPL Section 3.09(2) and 9 NYCRR Sections 372.7(b) and 409.1(c) where, generally, a permit is required for any commercial activity in OPRHP facilities (i.e., the selling or offering for sale, hire or lease of any merchandise, service, or other thing of value).

Useful published information on flying drones in NY City

We have partnered with the FAA and other drone enthusiasts in supporting an internet educational campaign called Know Before You Fly. The tips, pointers, and resources apply to NY City Drone Users also. Please visit the site for additional information: Know Before You Fly

Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International – Mostly for commercial drone service providers and users.

Academy of Model Aeronautics – Mostly for hobbyists

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