Brookhaven to restrict drones in public parks

The Brookhaven Parks and Recreation department has issued a policy restricting the use of recreational drones in public parks and sports fields owned by the city.

At the city’s work session meeting on Sept. 24, Parks and Recreation Director Michael King presented a list of recommendations banning possession or operation of drones “at any time, anywhere within, upon, or above any park property” unless permitted by the city.

“The purpose is to ensure safety in the parks of patrons,” said King. “We want to encourage people who are going to use their drones in a park, they get permission.”

The city’s property rights of parks extend at least 400 feet above the ground, the memo states. Above that height, FAA regulations are in place. Some Brookhaven parks, like Ashford Park, are already restricted by DeKalb-Peachtree Airport airspace.

Permission can be obtained by written application, subject to compliance of the Federal Aviation Agency’s rules and regulations. The applicant must state the purpose for drone use, like photography or videography, and commercial permit holders must provide certification of insurance. Drone use cannot interfere with any park program, event, or activity.

City council members asked how to educate park visitors that a drone is being permitted to fly, and how the department plans to enforce the rules.

“Education and enforcement is always the biggest and toughest part,” King said.

The policy is not being implemented immediately. King said the department is in discussion about how to educate park users on policies, where and how to post signage, and using park ambassadors or park rangers on site to educate and enforce the rules.

Councilmember Jennifer Owens said she hopes to strike a balance between law and recreational fun.

“I appreciate this and I agree with the spirit,” said Owens. “I want to make sure that we are still maintaining our public park space for recreation while striking a balance with public safety and security in terms of recording.”

Brookhaven Police Department will not be affected by the new policy. BPD uses unmanned drones, pre-positioned at launch locations throughout the city, to respond to 911 calls. On the scene, the drone transmits live footage to responding officers and incident commanders, allowing first responders to view hazards before rushing into a potentially dangerous situation.

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