Drone Laws: What drone owners should know before taking flight
A number of residents are reporting that they've seen what look to be drones in different areas over the Coachella Valley.
News Channel 3 has received a number of photos and videos.
Skip Fredricks, drone program professor at Grossmont College, says there are strict regulations on drones and this minimizes any misuse.
“A lot of people don’t understand the laws for drones. If you see them overhead, then more than likely they’re doing things that they’re allowed to do and they’re doing it safely. The more people are educated about it and understand it, it’ll be less of a fight.”
Skip Fredricks, drone program professor at Grossmont College
According to the Federal Aviation Administration:
- The FAA’s role is to ensure drones operate safely within the broader National Airspace System.
- Generally speaking, it is legal to fly a drone in most locations if you’re operating under 400 feet, but there are rules — including safety tests, keeping below 400 feet, keeping the drone in sight, avoiding all other aircraft, not causing a hazard to any people or property, and avoiding restricted airspace.
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The Riverside County Sheriff's Office says it is aware of the posts about the drones and is receiving calls regarding drone activity. The Sheriff's Office adds that it is working with its law enforcement partners and will investigate any criminal activity reported.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.
