Frequently Asked Questions

An Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), or Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS), is commonly referred to a drone.  A drone is an aerial device with an onboard computer that is operated remotely, generally by a pilot on the ground, using a handheld controller.  Small drones are battery-operated, weigh less than 55 pounds, have several rotors like a helicopter, and are equipped with a video camera.

After each drone deployment by the Columbia Police Department, the recorded data will be reviewed and evaluated for evidentiary value.  Data of identifiable individuals captured during a drone deployment will not be retained, unless there is reasonable suspicion evidence of criminal activity is present.  All retained data will be maintained or destroyed pursuant to Department records retention and evidence policies, and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Videos and photographs collected through the Columbia Police Department Drone Program are stored for the purposes of conducting police investigations and subsequent prosecutions.  Accordingly, videos and photographs are generally accessible to police investigators for official use only. 

Like all police records, videos and photographs may also be subject to additional release under the same rules and restrictions as Body Worn Camera videos and other items of evidence.

The Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act (725 ILCS 167) regulates the use of sUAS by law enforcement in Illinois.  This law seeks to protect the privacy of the public, while allowing law enforcement's use of sUAS under certain circumstances.  Each drone operator and observer will ensure operations of the sUAS are consistent with local, state, and federal law.

Information obtained by sUAS under the permissible uses must be destroyed within 30 days, unless there is a reasonable suspicion the information contains evidence of criminal activity, the information is relevant to an ongoing investigation, or pending criminal trial.

In addition to the training and study required to maintain a FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License, all CPD sUAS operators train regularly in a variety of locations and settings to ensure operational efficiency.  All training is documented, and the records are subject to review by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

All CPD sUAS pilots are subject to FAA regulations related to airspace use, and all must have a valid “Part 107” Remote Pilot License or be operating under the direct control of a Remote Pilot in Command.  Officer sUAS Pilots are also subject to the Columbia Police Department Policy on Drone Operations, Policy 607.