SEBASTIAN — Drone operators could have new rules to fly by in Sebastian if the City Council approves an ordinance that would curtail the use of drones beyond what the federal government has issued.
Despite the absence of City Attorney Bob Ginsburg, the Council decided to move forward with the first of two readings of the proposed ordinance. The Council split 3-2 in favor of sending the ordinance on to a second reading later in February.
The proposed ordinance would impose the following restrictions:
- Drones can fly only on private property under permission of said property owner
- Drones cannot fly above 35 feet
- Photos and videos can only be taken on the private property under permission of said property owner
- Drones cannot be equipped with weapons or laser devices
- Drone operators under the age of 12 must have parental supervision
- Drones must have identification and contact information for its owner
“I really love what’s on this paper,” Councilwoman Andrea Coy said of the drafted ordinance. She added that she trusts the city’s attorney to craft an ordinance that the City can defend.
“I’m happy with the way it is,” Mayor Richard Gillmor concurred.
Councilmen Jim Hill and Bob McPartlan, however, disagreed.
Hill called the ordinance a “gross overstep of government” that was based on a couple of complaints.
McPartlan contested that any rules and laws regarding drones should and would come from the Federal Aviation Authority.
“We’re trying to make a law where they already have purview,” he said.
Hill added that if the City is going to restrict drone usage, then it should consider kites, high-powered cameras, ladders and binoculars.
“We’re becoming Sombertown,” Hill said, explaining that kites often fly over other people’s private property and that cameras, ladders and binoculars can all be used to violate residents’ privacy.
He said that the City should operate on the assumption that drone operators use their devices responsibility. Those who don’t would be subject to existing laws.
No public input was provided on the issue, though Mayor Gillmor said people would have another opportunity to address the law at an upcoming Council meeting in February.
