SPRINGFIELD – Privately owned drones flown over public parks and protected wildlife areas have created the need for regulation. State Senator Julie Morrison championed a new law that will empower local governments to implement rules on the use of airspace.

“I proudly represent a district full of parks and wildlife,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Protecting sensitive habitats from being disturbed is the goal of this law.”

Senate Bill 2849 will give local governments the power to adopt reasonable rules for use of the airspace over their public property that is used recreationally or for conservation purposes. The rules and regulation to come from this law will not supersede any rules adopted by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

“This law will maintain the sanctity and longevity of beautiful outdoor spaces,” said Morrison.

Senate Bill 2849 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025.