Law Enforcement Frequently Asked Questions

This page addresses many common questions from law enforcement agencies in the the United States of America.

Are Police Departments using Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)'s now?
Yes, UAS's are a tool being used by law enforcement in the United States and around the world. The systems offer an affordable "eye in the sky" that has often been out of the financial reach for some police departments, as well as a complementary system for traditional manned aerial surveillance.

Are there any rules regarding their use?
It depends on the country - ranging from no rules to formal rules from the civil aviation authority in a specific country.

How can our Law Enforcement Department use UAS's and comply with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations in the United States?
Within the United States, UAS's are being used by law enforcement with FAA approval. The approval is granted on a case-by-case basis by the issuance of a Certificate of Authorization (COA). Police departments have and continue to receive COA approval via the FAA application process.

What is required for our Department to apply for a COA?
The Department seeking approval would submit the FAA form online. Just follow this link and select the link for the FAA online COA application. Please contact Kurt Roy at kurt.roy@rotomotion.com regarding the COA, and Mr. Roy will guide you step by step through the application to ensure a timely processing, or will act on your behalf to apply.

Are the operators of a UAS required to be FAA licensed pilots?
No, however, the operator (and observer) must:
  1. Complete a basic physical exam by an FAA certified physician. The physician will issue a Class 3 Medical Certificate. You can find a list of FAA affiliated physicians here.
  2. The operator must pass the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test. Only the written test is required, no flight training is required. Prep courses are available at any local flight school, or with self- study computer courses being the most efficient and popular option. Most students pass the exam with one to two weeks prep time. Any questions, please contact kurt.roy@rotomotion.com , or call Kurt Roy (843) 971-7455. Kurt is an FAA Certified Flight Instructor in both helicopters and airplanes.

Does the operator need to be an RC (remote control) aircraft pilot?
No, however, a safety pilot who is a proficient RC pilot is recommended. Rotomotion provides safety pilot training, or you may source your own safety pilot from a mong the many RC aircraft pilots around the world.

Is the Department of Justice Technical Bulletin for Lawenforcement Use of UAS dated 10/10/2007 still current?
Somewhat. As this bulletin is over a year old, things have evolved in the FAA regarding UAS use. There are several items referenced in the bulletin that are inaccurate or have changed:
  1. There is not a requirement for either the operator or observer of a UAS to be a FAA certified pilot or possess a Pilot's License. The requirements are stated in an above question.
  2. Neither the operator nor the observer are required to have a Class 2 Medical Certificate; only a Class 3 is required, which is the least involved.
  3. The FAA has issued COA's to operate in "populated" areas. The reference in the bulletin to "unpopulated" areas does not mean devoid of any person. Yellow areas on Sectional Aeronautical charts depict the more densely populated areas of cities and towns.
  4. The reference to "rarely getting 10 or more missions accomplished due to crashes" as a statement by the Department of Defense presumably includes all causes, including combat operations and poor weather conditions. If causes were defined as equipment/systems failure, it is fair to assume that the DOD's experience has been far better. Flown within the recommended wind, weather conditions, and operating limitions, our UAS's enjoy a far better loss rate, as do any aircraft flying in good conditions.

Where do we find any applicable rules and regulations regarding UAS's here in the United States?
Contact Kurt Roy (843) 971-7455 or kurt.roy@rotomotion.comto discuss locale-specific rules and regulations.

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