Can You Fly a Drone in Prospect Park, Brooklyn?

NYC Parks Drone Prohibition

Prospect Park is a 585-acre park managed by NYC Parks and the Prospect Park Alliance. Under Title 56 of the Rules of the City of New York, section 1-05(r)(8), it is unlawful to operate any model aircraft, drone, or unmanned aerial vehicle in any city park except at locations specifically designated for model aircraft use. Prospect Park has no such designation.

This rule applies to all areas within the park boundaries, including the Long Meadow, Prospect Lake, the Nethermead, and the perimeter paths. It does not matter whether your drone is a small consumer model or a large commercial platform — the prohibition covers all unmanned aircraft.

City-Wide Drone Law

In addition to the Parks rule, NYC Administrative Code section 10-126 independently prohibits the take-off and landing of unmanned aircraft anywhere in the city without NYPD authorization. Even if a hypothetical exception existed under Parks rules, section 10-126 would still require you to obtain NYPD written authorization before flying.

Why Prospect Park Has No Designated Field

NYC Parks designates model aircraft fields based on safety considerations including open space, distance from residential buildings, separation from walking paths, and low pedestrian density. Prospect Park, while large, is one of the most heavily used parks in Brooklyn, with millions of visitors annually. The park's mixed-use design — combining playgrounds, sports fields, a zoo, and heavily wooded areas — makes it unsuitable for drone operations from a safety perspective.

Designated Fields Nearby

Brooklyn has two designated model aircraft fields where you can fly without individual NYPD authorization:

• Calvert Vaux Park (Bath Beach) — approximately 5 miles south of Prospect Park. Accessible via the B or D train to Bay Parkway, then a short walk.
• Marine Park Model Aircraft Field (Flatbush Avenue and Avenue U) — approximately 5 miles southeast. One of the city's largest designated flying areas.

At both locations, you must still comply with all FAA requirements: Remote ID broadcast, 400-foot altitude ceiling, visual line of sight, and LAANC authorization for Class B airspace.

Enforcement in Prospect Park

Parks Enforcement Patrol (PEP) officers and NYPD officers patrol Prospect Park regularly. Drone activity in the park is conspicuous and will typically result in being asked to land immediately. Violations of the Parks rule carry fines, and violations of section 10-126 can result in criminal misdemeanor charges and equipment confiscation.