30/06/2026
A lot more goes into a simple drone flight than most people think, and here's my situation:
Tomorrow, I'm camping at John Bryan State Park.
First I have to check the aeronautical charts for controlled airspace and temporary flight restrictions, NOTAMs, and any other potential Hazzard. All good there ✅
Next is weather reports, cloud ceilings, visibility, barometric pressure. Only concern here is heat, the drone is rated for higher heat, but you always have to watch for performance changes, overheating, and battery health. Still good ✅
Next is checking local laws, and park rules, and this is where I run into most of the issues. In Ohio, it is against the law to fly a drone in a State Park, without permission of the people in charge of that park. This is also against most local Metropark rules, and enforceable by Park Rangers. This is where it gets convoluted, so stay with me.
"Flying in the park" is only able to be enforced if you take off and/or land in the park, on their property. They don't own the airspace above the park, however. If I was to take off from outside of the park, in a public area or private property that I'm allowed to be on, and I fly over the park, then I'm good, it's Class G airspace, and the FAA regulates that.
I contacted the Park Manager for John Bryan, told him what I wanted to do, and provided my credentials as a certified remote pilot with insurance. He had to make a few calls and check some laws, and he called me back and told me that the office will have a written letter of permission for me to fly INSIDE the park tomorrow. We both discussed safety and agreed on rules to not only keep other guests safe, but also to not be annoying anyone. So now this is also go for flight. ✅
I cant wait to share my shots tomorrow, stay tuned!
