Originally Posted by
EasternATC
Here's the wise-ass answer you were hoping against: it depends. And I'm going to assume we're only talking about bug smashers.
In Class D airspace, you can go VFR as long as the weather is 1000' and 3 miles. The TPA is not mandatory, so you can be below it anytime you need to be to maintain the 500' cloud clearance.
I believe the real limit here comes from 91.119 (minimum altitudes). What's underneath your traffic pattern? If it's a cow pasture, have at it under a 1000' ceiling. If it's a subdivision, better not fly.
You know, I have always wondered about this- The minimum altitudes are waived if taking off or landing. If you can be lower than 1000' AGL over a major city while on an instrument approach 4 miles from the airport, why does being on downwind 1 mile away not count as "Taking off or landing?" That is never well defined (surprise surprise, thanks FAA!)