SECAUCUS, N.J. – Local drone hobbyists and videographers will have to pack up their gear, as Mayor Gonnelli and Town Council have officially put an end to flying over the town’s public spaces.
On May 27, 2026, the council unanimously passed Ordinance No. 2026-22, adding Chapter 87 (“Drones and Unmanned Aircraft”) to the Town Code. While the town followed the standard process to pass the ordinance, the new rules flew largely under the radar; the town did not actively advertise the upcoming changes, and no community members showed up to speak or offer input during the public portion.
A Blow to Scenic Videography
The ordinance, which takes effect immediately, heavily restricts where Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) can operate. While few pilots would think to launch a drone outside Town Hall, the ban deals a major blow to residents who utilize local parks along the Hackensack River like Mill Creek Point Park to capture scenic, wide-open waterfront views.
Under the newly established regulations, drones are strictly prohibited from launching from or landing on any government or public buildings, public property, or town parks.
Furthermore, the law purports to block drones from operating or flying in any airspace below 400 feet directly over these public areas – a provision that may raise eyebrows among aviation enthusiasts. Under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, the federal government maintains exclusive control over U.S. airspace, meaning pilots are generally permitted to fly over public land as long as they comply with federal rules. However, the town’s new jurisdiction effectively halts local flight by targeting the physical launching and landing within park boundaries.
Steep Fines for Hobbyists
For those who want to use the parks for aerial photography, the only workaround is obtaining prior written permission from the Chief of Police specifically for a special event or a Town-sponsored function.
Otherwise, everyday residents caught launching a drone from local park grounds face steep penalties. Anyone convicted of violating the new regulations faces a fine of up to $500, a period of community service for up to 90 days, or a combination of both, at the discretion of the municipal judge.
The ordinance passed its first reading on May 12, 2026, before receiving its final stamp of approval on May 27.