Township Administrator’s Corner

Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), or drones, have become increasingly popular for recreational and commercial purposes. While their applications are vast, ranging from aerial photography to emergency services operations, the rising prevalence of sUAS has also brought challenges. Recent reports of unidentified drones in parts of the East Coast, along with a drone striking and damaging a fixed wing aircraft in California during wildfire response operations, have led authorities to revisit and better understand existing laws concerning their operation.

For recreational hobbyists, drones weighing 0.55 pounds or less enjoy certain regulatory exemptions. These drones do not need to be registered with the Federal Aviation Administration as long as they are used solely for recreational purposes. This exemption also applies to compliance with Remote ID requirements, which mandate that most drones broadcast their identification and location data during flight. By not falling under these rules, lightweight drones provide an accessible entry point for recreational hobbyists while minimizing regulatory costs associated with other types of drones.

However, this freedom comes with limitations. Drones flown recreationally under this exemption cannot be operated under Part 107, the FAA’s set of rules governing commercial drone operations. This delineation underscores the need for users to understand the boundaries of recreational versus commercial use to ensure compliance.

For drones that exceed 0.55 pounds, FAA registration is mandatory, even for recreational use. Registered drones must display their registration number prominently on the exterior surface. This rule facilitates accountability and allows authorities to trace the drone’s owner, if necessary.

The registration process is straightforward but requires periodic attention. Registrations must be renewed every three years. Drones registered under the FAA’s commercial operations framework are held to additional standards. This ensures that operators maintain a higher level of responsibility and proficiency, including passing an aeronautical knowledge test.

For drones weighing 55 pounds (25 kilograms) or more, the regulations shift significantly. These large drones do not qualify as sUAS and must be registered with an N-number, similar to a traditional manned aircraft. This classification aligns with the increased risks and complexities associated with operating such heavy aviation equipment.

Reports of drones in sensitive areas, such as near airports or critical infrastructure, have raised questions about potential security risks. In some cases, these drones may have been operating outside legal parameters, including altitude limits above 400 AGL (above ground level) and no-fly zones.

To address these challenges, authorities are considering measures to strengthen enforcement and enhance drone detection capabilities. This includes leveraging technologies such as geofencing, which restricts drones from flying in prohibited areas, and deploying counter-drone systems to neutralize rogue devices.

In Bath Township, drones have proven invaluable for various emergency services and zoning operations. The township’s fleet of four drones has been utilized for search and rescue missions and other township-related purposes. All pilots operating these drones underwent rigorous training and passed the FAA’s written proficiency examination to become certified as commercial operators. This commitment to proper training and certification ensures compliance with FAA regulations and the safe, effective use of drones in the community.

While drones represent a transformative technology with considerable potential, their proliferation underscores the importance of robust regulatory frameworks. Ensuring public safety and privacy, protecting sensitive infrastructure, and addressing security concerns requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves not only clear laws and enforcement, but also public education on safe and responsible drone use.As the skies become more crowded with drones, both recreational hobbyists and professionals must stay informed about evolving regulations. Adhering to FAA guidelines ensures not only compliance but also contributes to a safer airspace for everyone.