Where can I find official guidance on drone flying on fire island — rules?

The FAA website, NYC Administrative Code Section 10-126, and 38 RCNY Chapter 24 provide official guidance.

Do NYC drone rules differ from federal FAA rules?

Yes. NYC has additional local restrictions under Administrative Code Section 10-126 that go beyond federal FAA rules.

Flying a Drone on Fire Island: What You Need to Know

Q: What should NYC drone operators know about drone flying on fire island — rules?

Quick Answer: Fire Island is a 31-mile barrier island off Long Island south shore. Fire Island National Seashore, administered by the National Park Service, prohibits drone operations under NPS Policy Memorandum 14-05 except with a Special Use Permit. Non-NPS areas on Fire Island are subject to local community rules and NY State law. FAA regulations apply everywhere. As of May 2026, verify land management and LAANC ceilings before flying.

Quick Answer: Fire Island is a 31-mile barrier island off Long Island south shore. Fire Island National Seashore, administered by the National Park Service, prohibits drone operations under NPS Policy Memorandum 14-05 except with a Special Use Permit. Non-NPS areas on Fire Island are subject to local community rules and NY State law. FAA regulations apply everywhere. As of May 2026, verify land management and LAANC ceilings before flying.

Fire Island Overview

Fire Island is a narrow barrier island stretching approximately 31 miles along Long Island south shore in Suffolk County. Accessible by ferry or car to the western end (Robert Moses State Park). Known for beaches, dunes, and the Sunken Forest.

Fire Island National Seashore (NPS)

A significant portion is administered by the NPS. Under NPS Policy Memorandum 14-05 (authority: 36 CFR Section 1.5), launching, landing, or operating drones on NPS land is prohibited except under a Special Use Permit. These permits are typically for scientific research, resource management, or approved media production — not routinely available for recreational use.

Violation is a misdemeanor with maximum six months imprisonment and USD 5,000 fine.

Non-NPS Areas

Robert Moses State Park: Managed by NYS Parks. Check current drone policies.
Residential communities: Individual communities may have local drone restrictions.
County parks: Suffolk County rules apply.

Airspace

Fire Island is in Suffolk County, farther from JFK and LaGuardia. LAANC ceilings are generally more permissive. Republic Airport (FRG) and Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) may affect portions.

Practical Considerations

Strong ocean winds are common. Salt spray can damage equipment. The NPS/non-NPS boundary may not be clearly marked on the ground — check NPS boundary maps at the Fire Island National Seashore website before flying.

Primary Sources: Fire Island National Seashore | NPS Drone Policy | NPS PM 14-05 | FAA B4UFLY | Information current as of May 2026.

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