NYC Drone Permit Community Board Notification Explained (2026)

New York City layers a community-notification duty on top of the federal and city permit requirements whenever a drone will record imagery. It is a permit condition, not a pre-application hurdle — but the proposed notice must be submitted with your application if you plan to capture images. This guide explains who must be notified and what the notice must say.

When Community Board Notice Is Required

Community notification is required only when an unmanned aircraft will capture or transmit still images, video, or audio during the operation (38 RCNY § 24-05(e)). If your flight captures no imagery or audio, this condition does not apply. If it does, you must include a copy of the proposed community notice with your application (38 RCNY § 24-03(a)(13)).

Finding the Right Community Board

New York City is divided into 59 Community Boards, each covering a geographic sub-district. You must notify the board(s) for every community district where the drone is anticipated to capture or transmit imagery or audio — not just where it takes off.

The Five Required Content Elements

Under 38 RCNY § 24-05(e)(1), the notification to each board must include:

1. A statement that an unmanned aircraft capturing or transmitting still images, video, or audio will be used in their district
2. The take-off and landing site designated on the permit
3. The date and time of take-off, and the date and time of landing
4. The expected duration of the operation
5. The name and telephone number of a representative of the applicant whom people may contact with questions or concerns

Timing

The community board notification and the physical site notices must both be in place no later than 48 hours before the earliest proposed take-off. The NYPD provides a notice template on the portal. Sending the notice and posting the physical signs are companion obligations — both are required when imagery is captured.

Why This Condition Matters

Community notification reflects New York City's emphasis on privacy and transparency for camera-equipped drones. Skipping it when imagery is captured is a permit-condition violation that can lead to civil penalties and jeopardize your eligibility for future permits. Treat the notice as an integral part of any imaging flight, drafted at application time and confirmed sent 48 hours out.