According to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: "Drone and UAS operators need to contact the park office of the flying site that they plan to visit to ensure compliance with all rules and regulations.
Please be advised that the entire park at each of these locations is not open to UAS or drone usage. Only the designated flying site within each park is open to UAS use."
NOTE: The area marked here is not the designated flying area. Please contact the park office for the designated area and be sure to make a comment here so we can update the correct area on the map!
Benjamin Rush State Park, located in the North-East section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is unique in several ways. It is known for its large community gardens, extensive open spaces, and a variety of trails that attract walkers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts. The park is also bordered by the Poquessing Creek, adding to its natural charm.
However, when it comes to flying a drone at Benjamin Rush State Park, several factors need to be considered:Legal Considerations:1. State Park Regulations: As of my knowledge cutoff in October 2021, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) restricts drone usage in state parks. In order to fly a drone, you typically need to obtain special permission from the park management. It is crucial to check the latest park-specific guidelines and rules, as these can change.2. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations: Benjamin Rush State Park is within the controlled airspace of Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE). This means you would likely need Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) authorization before flying a drone. LAANC is a system that allows drone pilots to receive near-instant approval to fly in controlled airspaces.
Steps to Ensure Compliance:1. Check DCNR Rules: Visit the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or contact park management directly for the most up-to-date information about drone regulations at Benjamin Rush State Park.2. Use LAANC: Use LAANC services to obtain authorization. This can be done through various mobile apps and web services approved by the FAA, such as AirMap, Skyward, or Kittyhawk.3. Review FAA Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the FAA guidelines for drone operation, which include keeping your drone within visual line-of-sight, not flying over people, and not exceeding the altitude limit set by the FAA (generally 400 feet above ground level).
Other Considerations:- Respect Wildlife and Visitors: Ensure that your drone activities do not disturb wildlife or interfere with other visitors’ enjoyment of the park.- Weather Conditions: Always check the weather forecast before planning your flight. High winds, rain, and other adverse conditions can affect your drone's performance and safety.- Insurance and Registration: Make sure your drone is properly registered with the FAA if it weighs more than 0.55 pounds and consider obtaining drone insurance for additional liability coverage.
Is it Worth Flying a Drone?If you receive the appropriate permissions, flying a drone at Benjamin Rush State Park could offer excellent aerial views of the park’s open landscapes, community gardens, and natural features. However, given the nearby airport and the generally restrictive drone policies in state parks, make sure it’s worth the effort and that your flight adds value to your visit or project.
Summary:- Legal to Fly?: Generally restricted; requires special permission from DCNR.- LAANC Authorization?: Required due to proximity to Northeast Philadelphia Airport.- Additional Steps?: Compliance with FAA guidelines, potentially registering the drone, and ensuring non-disruptive operation.Always verify the most recent rules and guidelines well ahead of your planned visit to ensure a smooth and lawful drone-flying experience.
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