South Orange Cops: No Drones On Sloan (Street)

SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — South Orange police issued a warning to local drone owners after receiving a report of a person flying an Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) on Sloan Street last week.

Police stated that the owner of the sUAS – otherwise known as a “drone” – was gone when officers arrived on the scene on Nov. 3.

“Flying above Sloan Street, in general, is prohibited,” South Orange police stated. “Certain circumstances could apply that would allow you to fly above this busy populated area… however today was not one of them.”

Police suggested that anyone who owns or wishes to fly a drone in South Orange become familiar with regulations concerning the gadgets, and referred residents to www.knowbeforeyoufly.org for more information.

South Orange police reminded residents of the following regulations for recreational drone pilots/owners:

• Follow community-based safety guidelines, as developed by organizations such as the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA)
• Fly no higher than 400 feet and remain below any surrounding obstacles when possible
• Keep your sUAS in eyesight at all times, and use an observer to assist if needed
• Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations, and you must see and avoid other aircraft and obstacles at all times
• Do not intentionally fly over unprotected persons or moving vehicles, and remain at least 25 feet away from individuals and vulnerable property
• Contact the airport and control tower before flying within five miles of an airport or heliport
• Do not fly in adverse weather conditions such as in high winds or reduced visibility
• Do not fly under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Ensure the operating environment is safe and that the operator is competent and proficient in the operation of the sUAS
• Do not fly near or over sensitive infrastructure or property such as power stations, water treatment facilities, correctional facilities, heavily traveled roadways, government facilities, etc.
• Check and follow all local laws and ordinances before flying over private property
• Do not conduct surveillance or photograph persons in areas where there is an expectation of privacy without the individual’s permission

• See related article: Essex County College 'First In Nation' To Offer Drone Classes

File Photo: Flickr Commons

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