New York’s Penal Law Article 280, “unlawful use of a drone,” has been in force since August 25. It bars flying within 500 feet of protected sites such as schools, police and fire stations, airports, prisons, critical infrastructure and large events. A violation is a class A misdemeanor.
Part 107 pilots who follow all federal, state and local rules are exempt. Recreational pilots are exempt only if the drone weighs 0.55 lb (249.5 g) or less at takeoff, counting everything on board, and is flown under the recreational rules. DJI rates the Mini 5 Pro at 249.9 g, just over the line. If you fly in New York, weigh your drone with everything attached and keep clear of the protected sites.
Original reporting: DroneXL. Read the full story at the source →