‘Nobody knew anything’: Residents in the dark about mystery drones
Eyewitnesses in New Jersey and New York are seeing flying drones, some they say are the size of a school bus.
Since November, dozens of mystery drones have been spotted over New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York over the last several weeks.
The governor of New York and former governor of Maryland took to X on Friday to comment on the drone sightings that have spawned various theories about their origin and prompted lawmakers to call for more transparency from investigating agencies.
On Friday, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a social media post that New Yorkers had reported drones similar to those in New Jersey.
As federal officials continue to investigate the origin of the aircraft, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have also said there is no evidence the drones pose a threat to national security or public safety.
With this in mind, here’s what to know about drone law in California, from zones of operation to shooting down a drone and more.
Is it legal to shoot a drone in California?
No. It is illegal to try to shoot down or destroy a drone that trespasses on private property or above public spaces because it may cause safety risks.
As of Oct. 1, 791,597 drones are registered in the U.S., according to the Federal Aviation Administration, including 396,746 commercial drones and 387,746 recreational drones.
Regardless of the drone’s classification, however, the FAA considers them aircraft — meaning that you could be charged with shooting at an aircraft, a federal crime if you take a shot at one.
If you believe a drone is violating the law, your best bet is to contact law enforcement.
Are drones legal in California?
Some federal drone laws apply everywhere. Commercial drone pilots or government employees (such as first responders) must get a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA and follow the requirements of the FAA’s Part 107 Small UAS Rule (Part 107).
Recreational drone pilots must take the FAA’s Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), follow FAA recreational model aircraft rules, and register them if the drones weigh more than 0.55 pound, along with line-of-sight restrictions and other rules.
Flying a drone over someone’s property may also be seen as trespassing if it interferes with the owner’s use of the property.
California lawmakers have passed rules about using drones in the state. They include:
Using a drone to photograph or film people in a private activity without permission is prohibited. This legislation responded to the paparazzi’s use of drones to cover celebrities and other public figures.Laws provide immunity for first responders who damage a drone interfering with them during an emergency.It is a misdemeanor to interfere with the activities of first responders during an emergency with a drone.Drone use within State Park wilderness areas, cultural preserves, and nature preserves are prohibited without permission.Who uses drones in California?
Recreational, commercial, and government drone uses are legal in California with the proper licensure and registration. All drones, however, must possess a Drone Remote ID. For commercial and government drone pilots, a license is required. For hobbyist drone pilots, requirements vary based on operation.
Additionally, some drone delivery services operate in California. Drone food and package delivery pilot programs in the Bay Area and San Diego have been launched.
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Publish date : 2024-12-14 03:40:00
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