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New York City Loves to Fly: What Parks Are Drone Friendly?

November 3, 2017
New York City Loves to Fly: What Parks Are Drone Friendly?

Without a doubt, playing around with your drone can be a fun pastime activity.  But did you know you can get into a heap of trouble by not knowing the local rules and regulations?  Certain areas place a great deal of limitations on any kind of drone-related activities, and New York City is no exception.  However, you are welcome to fly your drone around certain New York City parks without fear of getting a ticket!

Generally speaking, a lot of cities in New York have banned the use of drones, and you can’t just fly your drone around New York City either, at least not anywhere you’d want to.  With that being said, there are a couple of parks in New York City where drones are fully permitted.  By visiting the following parks, you will be able to have fun with your drone with almost zero restrictions:

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens

Heading just a little bit south of Citi Field, there is the Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens.  Full of awe-inspiring soccer fields, a baseball field, and even a basketball court, these 900 of acres offer nothing but the utmost of joy to the drone-admiring enthusiast.

If you decide to come by during the mornings, you might notice the crows flying around.  The glorious cinematic scene lends itself to any visitor who wishes to have a glance at it.  However, you do have to keep in mind the fly zone’s limits.

Calvert Vaux Park, Brooklyn

Maintained by the Seaview Rotary Wings RC Helicopter Club, this is one of the most beginner-friendly drone locations out there.  The landscape is beautiful and wide-open, and by flying your drone over the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, you can snap some excellent photos.  If you’re especially lucky, you can even catch a passing cruise ship!

Marine Park, Brooklyn

If you’re after some of the best aerial shots you can snap, the Calvert Vaux Park is the place to be.  However, in order to fly there legally, you must get yourself a membership.  The drone-safe portion of the area is located behind the Seba Playground and skate park.  And if you’re looking for some really diverse landscape, just fly over the wooded area to discover the Shell Bank Creek that’s flowing between the Plumb Island and the Marine Park.

Forest Park, Queens

The western part of the park is known for its rather secluded model aircraft field.  When visiting, don’t miss out on the green golf course and the majestic paths leading through the nature.  If the skies are clear enough, you will also be able to see the glory of the Manhattan’s skyline.

LaTourette Park, Staten Island

LaTourette Park spans over the Staten Island’s 2800-acre Greenbelt.  If you can’t seem to satisfy the Tiger Woods within you, this is – without a shred of doubt – the place to be.  Behind the golf course, you will stumble upon the designated airfield for all your drone flying needs.  If you want to snap some wildlife photos with your flying gizmo, make sure to visit the Richmond Creek.

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Conclusion

If you want to make sure you always stay within the legal boundaries of drone flying, there are several apps available that will clearly indicate where you can and cannot fly your flying device.  Apart from that, don’t forget to visit the areas we’ve mentioned and have fun!

 

Jeffrey Turner is a tech enthusiast who discovered the world of drones by accident while searching for a way to record his backyard from above. Nowadays, he uses them for all sorts of purposes, including picking up his tools from the shed, playing around with modifications, and regularly competing in drone races with his friends.

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FAQs

1. How do I know what drone to buy?

The best way to know which drone to buy is by carefully evaluating your needs.

Ask yourself what features you prioritize and look out for them when comparing different models.

2. What drone should I get as a beginner?

Drones like the RyzeTech Tello, DJI Mini 3, and Holy Stone HS900 are ideal for beginners thanks to their user-friendly nature and affordability.

3. What is the 1:1 rule for drones?

It's important to ensure the safety of others when flying your drones, and one major way to do so is by complying with the 1:1 rule.

According to this rule, for every meter your drone is flying above the ground, it must maintain at least an equivalent horizontal distance from any uninvolved person.

4. What is considered a good drone?

Typically, a good drone:

  • is easy to operate
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