Focus Area: Fire Department, Police Department
Staff Contact: Jeff DeGraffenreid, Mike Butaud
Subject: Report regarding a proposed ordinance pertaining to the takeoff and landing of unmanned aircraft systems (drones).
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Report regarding a proposed ordinance pertaining to the takeoff and landing of unmanned aircraft systems (drones).
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Summary:
An emerging challenge for public safety is understanding intent of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) activity observed during large gathering special events and in the vicinity of critical city infrastructure.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the sole entity with the ability to regulate UAS activity in the air. As such, both professional and recreational pilots are required to follow specific guidance. For example, pilots are required to comply with FAA Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR). However, there continues to be persistent unauthorized UAS activity in TFR airspace. There are emerging technologies for Counter-UAS response usually only available to the FBI or similar federal agency.
The proposed ordinance restricts the takeoff and landing of UAS near special events and some city infrastructure. Specifically, it would make it unlawful for any person to take off or land a UAS within one mile of a special event during the event, one hour before the scheduled beginning and one hour after the event has ended. The proposed ordinance requires “no-drone” signage or verbal instruction from a law enforcement officer. It would also restrict takeoff or landing within one thousand feet of several locations in the city which are listed in Exhibit A of the ordinance.
Operating a UAS beyond visual line of sight of a pilot is regulated by the FAA. Restricting takeoff and landing is an option for limiting drone activity over specific areas.
The ordinance does not apply to the Police or Fire Department or other government employees in the performance of their duties. It also has provisions for approved drone takeoff and landing when included in an application during the special event permitting process.
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Financial Information:
None
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Action Needed:
Accept Report
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Attachment(s):
A. Ordinance No. 26-XX
B. Facility Map