Can You Fly a Drone in Bushwick, Brooklyn?

Bushwick Drone Rules

Bushwick is a densely populated neighborhood in northern Brooklyn known for its street art and warehouse conversions. Like every part of NYC, it falls under NYC Administrative Code § 10-126, which requires an NYPD Unmanned Aircraft Permit for any drone takeoff or landing outside of a designated airport, heliport, or model aircraft field.

The NYPD permit system, established through 38 RCNY Chapter 24 and effective since July 21, 2023, applies regardless of whether you’re flying recreationally or commercially.

Maria Hernandez Park and Other Green Spaces

Maria Hernandez Park is the main green space in Bushwick. As NYC Parks property, it falls under the drone restrictions in § 18-146 and 1 RCNY § 1-05(r)(2). Drone operations at any NYC Parks location are limited to five designated model aircraft fields—none of which are in Bushwick.

This also applies to smaller green spaces and playgrounds managed by NYC Parks throughout the neighborhood.

Airspace Over Bushwick

Bushwick sits within New York Class B airspace. Before flying, operators must check the LAANC grid ceiling for their specific location. Some areas of outer Brooklyn may have ceilings of 100–200 ft AGL, while others may be at 0 ft. Where the ceiling is 0 ft, you would need to apply for manual authorization through the FAA’s DroneZone system, which can take days to weeks.

Steps to Fly Legally

1. Get your FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
2. Check the LAANC grid ceiling at your planned location using B4UFLY
3. Apply for an NYPD permit at least 30 days before your flight at nyc.gov/dronepermits
4. Obtain insurance with $2M per occurrence / $4M aggregate minimums, naming the City of New York as additional insured
5. Ensure Remote ID compliance per 14 CFR Part 89

Penalties for Unpermitted Flights

Violations carry civil penalties starting at $250 for a first offense, $500 for a second within one year, and $1,000 for third and subsequent violations under 38 RCNY § 24-07. A violation of § 10-126 is also classified as a misdemeanor, which can result in up to 90 days of imprisonment.