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Unmanned aircrafts (UA) are also commonly known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), remote controlled aircraft, model aircraft, and drones.

LEGAL REGULATIONS & POLICIES
1. Question: Which laws and regulations govern the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in New York City?

Answer: Prior to July XX, 2023, section 10-126(c) of the New York City Administrative Code prohibited most take-off and landings of unmanned aircraft (UA) within New York City. The Department’s new rule, 38 RCNY 24, creates a procedure by which the public may submit applications to launch and land UA, including drones, within the City.

2. Question: What does the new rule change?
Answer: Currently, UA may only launch or land from locations designated by the Department of Transportation (DOT), or from specific model aircraft fields designated by the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation. The rule allows the public to submit applications requesting additional locations within the City be temporarily designated for take-off or landing of UAs. The new rule does not apply to take-offs and landings occurring within model aircraft fields.

3. Question: What do I need to before I submit an application?
Answer: Please see 38 RCNY 24 § 24-03(b) ADD HYPERLINK for the application requirements.

4. Question: How do I submit an application to take-off or land a UA in the City?
Answer: Prospective applications may apply for a permit to launch and/or land UA within New York City on the NYPD Drone Permit Portal.

 5. Question: : What is the approval process timeline for the public-use taking off and landing a drone permit?
Answer: Applicants must submit a completed application at least 30 days in advance of the date of the first proposed take-off or landing. Applications are reviewed in the order in which they are received.

 6. Question: Who may submit an application for a permit?
Answer: Individuals may submit an application on behalf of themselves, another person, or on behalf of a business, corporation, entity, etc. however, all applications must propose an UA operator who have obtained a Remote Pilot Certificate pursuant to Part 107 of Title 14 of the CFR. Visit the FAA's website for more information.

 7. Question: How do I obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate?
Answer: Visit the FAA's website for more information.

 8. Question: What is the penalty for use of a drone without a permit issued by NYC? What is the penalty for the misuse of a drone?
Answer: Operators that cause a UA to take-off or land without authorization may be subject to both a Criminal Court and OATH Summons. Operators who act contrary to the terms of a validly-issued permit may be subject to an OATH Summons. Any operators found to be using drones in a reckless or dangerous manner may be subject additional criminal penalties.

 9. Question: Are drone operators required to disclose or display their permit and purpose when asked?
Answer: Drone operators are required to have certain documents on hand and readily available for inspection upon request by law enforcement personnel, including the take-off/landing permit issued, a copy of the prerequisite insurance policy, documentation of FAA authorization to operate an UA and any relevant waivers, and a government-issued photo ID.

FOR UAS OPERATORS

 10. Question: I need help after submitting my permit application. Who can I call?
Answer: For support after you have submitted a permit application, send an e-mail to DronePermits@nypd.org.

11. Question: Does a take-off and landing permit allow me to block off the location listed on the permit?
Answer: No. An UA take-off and landing permit alone does not constitute a reservation or grant exclusive use of the location listed on the permit. Operators must receive approval to enter or remain in private locations.

12. Question: The rule states I have to post notice where the UA is anticipated to capture or transmit still images, audio, or video. Is there a template for this notice?
Answer: You may use this template for posting notice.

13. Question: I need to reschedule a permit that I have already submitted or granted. How can I reschedule?
Answer: Permit applicants can send an e-mail to DronePermits@nypd.org.

14. Question: I have already submitted a permit application for a flight, but I have new or updated information for consideration. How can I edit my permit application?
Answer: Permit applicants can send an e-mail to DronePermits@nypd.org.

 15. Question: I believe my permit application has been denied wrongfully. How can I appeal the permit denial?
Answer: Applicants who believe their permit application has been denied in error can log into their NYPD Drone Permit Portal account to get instructions for filing an appeal. The public can send an e-mail to DronePermits@nypd.org.

 16. Question: My permit was revoked. Who can I call for support?
Answer: Every effort will be made to notify applicants whose permits have been revoked. However, it remains the responsibility of UA operators and applicants to check the status of their permit prior to launching or landing UA flights within New York City. UA permits may be revoked during emergency situations, or on the spot for improper use. Drone operators found to be using drones in a dangerous manner are subject to arrest for reckless endangerment.

17. Question: My drone has crashed. What are my next steps?
Answer: All accidents involving UAS must be reported to XXX within XXX.

 18. Question: My drone has landed or crashed on private or restricted property. How can I get help recovering my drone?
Answer: All accidents involving UAS must be reported to XXX within XXX. If you need assistance recovering a drone that landed or crashed on private or restricted property, call XXX.

SAFETY

 19. Question: How can I report a drone accident?
Answer: Call 911 to report accidents or an incident of misuse of drones. Drone operators found to be using drones in a dangerous manner may be subject to arrest for reckless endangerment.

 20. Question: What should I do if a drone causes bodily injuries and/or property damage?
Answer: All accidents involving UAS, including accidents that result in physical injury or property damage, should be reported to XXX within XXX. Additionally, members of the public are encouraged to call 911 to report accidents or an incident of misuse of drones.

 21. Question: What can I do if a drone is used to harass me?
Answer: The rules do not allow for UAs to be used in the commission of a crime. Members of the public are encouraged to call 911 if they believe a drone is being used to harass, surveil, or is otherwise being used unlawfully.

 22. Question: Someone I know has footage obtained via drone that is inappropriate or illegal. How can I report this?
Answer: Members of the public are encouraged to call NYC Safe, the New York State Department of Homeland Security’s hotline for suspicious activity, at 1-888-NYCSAFE to report an incident of misuse of UA.

 23. Question: A drone has landed on my property. If no one has claimed it, how can I find the owner or operator?
Answer: All accidents involving UAS must be reported to XXX within XXX. Call 911 to report accidents that result in physical injury or property damage. Otherwise, to report a found UA, contact the police precinct in the area where you found the UA.