Federal Aviation Administration Traditional Aircraft Registration
In December 2015, under 14 CFR Part 47, the FAA established an Unmanned
Aerial Vehicle (UAV) registry, requiring anyone who owns a small UAV,
weighing between 0.55 and 55 pounds to register it with the FAA before
operating it. People who do not register could face civil and criminal
penalties. The maximum civil penalty is a fine of up to $27,500, with criminal
penalties reaching $250,000 or three years in prison, determined by the FAA.
However, the FAA lacks the resources to enforce the rule, so it depends on
local law enforcement to help stop unauthorized use of UAVs.
The FAA released a law enforcement guide to explain how first responders
and others can provide assistance to the FAA by:
covered by these restrictions and they do not address Military
Operating Areas.
The FAA depends on local law enforcement to stop and report the
unauthorized use of UAVs. Both citizens and law enforcement officials
may be unaware of the FAA regulations associated with UAVs.
Identifying potential witnesses and conducting initial interviews.
Contacting the suspected operators of the UAV or model aircraft.
Viewing and recording the location of the event. Collecting evidence. Identifying if the UAV operation was in a sensitive location, event or
activity. Notifying one of the FAA’s Regional Operation Centers about the
operation as soon as possible.
Findings
The unauthorized use of UAVs in areas surrounding DCR and within
Military Training Routes has the potential to create hazards and impact
military operations.
The FAA has instituted drone flight restrictions over certain military
bases to address nation security concerns; however, the DCR is not
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Background Report