Engineering Project Manager for Public Works Jason Owens requested that the Navajo County Board of Supervisors approve an internal policy for “Use of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)” at the board meeting on Feb. 13.
Owens said that last year the public works department was able to purchase a small UAS, better known as a drone. “We did this to assist with surveying and documenting our roads and also in an effort for public outreach. The policy we have submitted clarifies our use of the drone within the department.”
The policy outlines the potential uses as follows, although the following list is not inclusive: surveying and inspection of roads, signage and striping, structures, washes and waterways; documenting roadway projects and programs before, during and after; county activities, projects or programs; disasters, including public emergency and E911; education and training; and community partnerships.
Owens presented a two-minute video that showed the ease in which a road could be surveyed as well as water crossings that interact with the roads. As he noted in the presentation, the drone gives accurate information while saving time and creating a safer work environment.
The policy clearly defines that all employees participating in drone operations will adhere to the requirements of the policy as well as being in full compliance with federal statutes and FAA regulations.
Drone operators also will be required to obtain a remote pilot certification (14 CFR Part 107) from the FAA and must comply with all current FAA requirements. They will have to pass a skills test that involves flight use as well as pre-flight inspections.
The privacy clause within the policy states: “UAS shall not intentionally be used to monitor or capture data of individuals in areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, in absence of a valid search warrant or as otherwise restricted by law.” Other items covered in the policy are the guidelines for safety and restricted zones.
Supervisor Steve Williams said that he believes the drone is a very efficient use of technology. “Mr. Owens is a pioneer for the county on this.” The board approved the adoption of the policy.
