SERIES 3000: OPERATIONS, FINANCE, AND PROPERTY
3100 General Operations
3111 Drones
The District seeks to provide a safe learning environment, limit distractions, and protect the privacy of students and employees. Drone operation may threaten those objectives. A drone may be operated on District property only in accordance with this Policy.
As used in this Policy, a “drone” is an unmanned aircraft that is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.
A. Approval of Drone Use
Except as provided in subsection B.2.b., drone operation on District property must be approved in writing by the Superintendent or designee.
B. Use Requirements
- A drone must weigh less than 55 pounds, including the weight of anything attached to the drone. A drone exceeding this weight restriction may not be operated on District property absent FAA approval.
- A drone may be used:
a. for recreational purposes. Recreational purposes is broadly construed to refer to any drone use that is not for:
i. compensation;
ii. furtherance of a business; or
iii. instructional purposes.
b. by a student if the use is a component of an approved curriculum. A drone may be used by personnel if the use is incidental and secondary to a student’s permitted co-curricular use.
c. for commercial purposes in accordance with FAA regulations and requirements.
3. A drone operator must:
a. abide by safety guidelines of a community based organization;
b. maintain a visual line of sight with the drone for the duration of the use;
c. not interfere with manned aircraft operations;
d. not operate the drone more than 400 feet above ground level;
e. not use the drone in a manner that would violate another person’s reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., via recording, broadcasting, or otherwise) or endanger people, vehicles, or District property; and
f. comply with applicable law.
C. Disclaimer of Damages and Liability
The District will make a reasonable attempt to retrieve drones that have landed in an area accessible only by authorized District personnel. The District is not responsible for any damaged or lost drones or damages arising out of a drone operator’s use of a drone on District property.
D. Violations and Unauthorized Use
A person who violates this Policy may be referred to law enforcement, directed to discontinue use, and denied future requests for drone operation. A student or employee who violates this Policy may also be subject to discipline.
Legal authority: 14 CFR Part 107
Date adopted: 08/09/2021
Date revised:
