Drone Laws
in Massachusetts (2023)

Welcome to this wiki. The goal of this wiki is to crowd-source drone information. Having said that, information may be inaccurate, out-of-date, and should not be relied upon for legal advice.

Federal Drone Laws

The Federal Aviation Administration controls where you can fly your drone
and under what conditions throughout the United States. You should become familar with the FAA's rules before flying.

Check FAA Drone Laws

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Massachusetts State Drone Laws
These laws apply in the entire state.

302 CMR 12.00

Section 12 of Massachusetts CMR states that the following activites are prohibited unless authorized by a Special Use Permit:

  • Taking off, landing, or bringing any airplane, helicopter, sea plane ultra-light aircraft, or any other apparatus on Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) property
  • Conduct any commercial use activity

Note that the CMR does not specifically mention the use of unmanned aircraft, but can be interpreted to include such devices. It would be best to exercise caution and consult the park authority.

Ref 302 CMR – Department of Conservation and Recreation

City and County
Drone Laws
These laws apply in some areas.

Local drone laws in Massachusetts refer to policies and regulations that are enacted and enforced at the county, city, or town levels.

 

City of Chicopee

  • Drones shall only take off or land in private property owned by the operator or where written permission has been granted by the landowner.
  • Drones are not allowed to operate over property owned or operated by the City of Chicopee unless prior authorization has been granted.
  • No drone shall photograph or record videos of any person without their prior written permission

Ref City Legislation Ch. 186

 

City of Belchertown

Prohibits the use of drones on the Quabbin Reservoir Watershed System without a permit issued by the DWSP

Ref Quabbin Reservoir Watershed System Public Access Management Plan

 

Town of Holyoke

  • Drones are not allowed to operate over private property unless written consent has been granted by the property owner.
  • Drones are not allowed to fly over city-owned property (including Holyoke waterworks and Holyoko gas and electric) without prior written consent from the city.

Ref Code of Ordinances 54-22

 

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Outdoor drone use in property is only allowed for Part 107-licensed pilots and after completion of a UAS Flight Approval Form of the space owner.

Ref Environment, Health, and Safety Rules

Where to fly
drones in Massachusetts

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