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Added 7 months ago by Anon

REVIEW
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 necessarily the designated flying area. Please contact the park office for the designated area and be sure to make a comment here so we can confirm this is the correct area on the map!
DESCRIPTION
Hillman State Park in Pennsylvania is a scenic and serene state park known for its rolling hills, woodlands, and numerous recreational opportunities. Located in Washington County, about 20 miles west of Pittsburgh, the park covers approximately 3,600 acres and offers activities such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, and bird watching. The park's natural beauty makes it an attractive spot for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
When it comes to flying a drone at Hillman State Park, here are some key considerations:
Legality and Regulations
1. State Park Rules: You must first check with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Many state parks in Pennsylvania have specific regulations regarding drone usage, and some may require special permits or outright prohibit drones.
2. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations:
- Recreational Use: For hobby or recreational drone flying, the FAA requires that you follow their guidelines, which include:
- Flying below 400 feet.
- Keeping your drone within line of sight.
- Not flying over people or moving vehicles.
- Adhering to any Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) in your area.
- Part 107 Certification: If you are flying your drone for commercial purposes, you need to have an FAA Part 107 certification, which involves passing a knowledge test.
3. LAANC Authorization:
- Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC): If the park is within controlled airspace (near an airport, for instance), you will need LAANC authorization to fly your drone there, even if you are flying recreationally.
- You can easily check if the park is within controlled airspace by using apps like AirMap, Kittyhawk, or the FAA's B4UFLY App.
Additional Recommendations
1. Respect Wildlife and Other Park Visitors: Ensure you are not disturbing wildlife or the enjoyment of other visitors. Some areas may have specific restrictions to protect sensitive habitats or species.
2. Check for Local Notices: Sometimes specific events or temporary restrictions may affect drone use in the park. Check the park's website or contact the park office for any notices.
3. Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast and wind conditions before you fly your drone. Drones can be unstable in high winds and poor weather conditions.
4. Practice Good Etiquette: Even if drone flying is permitted, practicing good drone etiquette—such as avoiding noisy flights near crowded picnic areas or trails—can help ensure a positive experience for all park visitors.
Is it worth flying a drone there? Absolutely, the park’s landscape offers a mix of lush woodlands, open fields, and hills that can yield stunning aerial footage. However, always make sure you're compliant with all regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable flying experience.
TRAIL ADDRESS
No address provided
FLIGHT AREA
5 hectares
AIRSPACE
Unknown
MEMBERS-ONLY
No
COMMENTS (0)
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