Drone Policy


St. Albans Recreation Department & Hard’ack Recreation Area Drone Policy

Purpose

To protect the safety, privacy, and enjoyment of visitors, the operation of unmanned aircraft systems, commonly called drones, is restricted within the recreation area.

Policy

No person may launch, land, or operate a drone from, on, or over property within the recreation area without prior written authorization from the recreation department.
  • The restriction applies during all hours and at all recreation area facilities, fields, trails, parking areas, buildings, and special events.
  • Drone use must not interfere with emergency response, maintenance work, organized programs, wildlife, or another visitor’s reasonable expectation of privacy.
  • Authorization from the recreation area does not replace any registration, certification, airspace approval, or operating requirement imposed by federal, state, or local law and that permission is for a one time use.

Exceptions

Exceptions may be granted in writing for public safety, emergency response, authorized municipal operations, permitted contractors, approved research, or other activities determined to serve the public interest. Any authorization may include conditions regarding dates, times, locations, supervision, insurance, and operating procedures.

Enforcement

Visitors who violate this policy may be directed to stop operating the drone and may be required to leave the recreation area. Additional action may be taken under applicable laws, regulations, permit conditions, or facility rules. Emergency or unsafe drone activity may be reported to the appropriate public safety authority.



Return to Previous List