Drone operators in Summit would no longer need police permission to fly over public gatherings or launch from public property. A revised ordinance with that change heads to a public hearing Wednesday, Nov. 4.
The proposed ordinance would bring the city's drone regulations in line with federal standards, according to the city's meeting agenda. Councilman Smith said at the Oct. 20 meeting that the ordinance would be changed due to legal concerns, including rules on airspace, nj21st reported.
What the drone rules would require
Recreational drone operators launching, landing or flying from public property would need to complete the Federal Aviation Administration's TRUST safety test. Non-recreational operators would need an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate and would have to show their papers if police ask.
Rules against interfering with emergency responders would stay. So would the ban on intentionally using drones to watch people where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy without their consent.
The revised ordinance also narrows the nuisance provision. Broad language about harm and violating other laws would be replaced with specific language covering blocking access to public facilities and creating a nuisance or hazardous condition on city property.
The city could still temporarily restrict drone launches and landings on city property during city-sponsored or permitted events. Those restrictions would require 30 days' public notice and would not regulate flights in the airspace above the event.
