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Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS/Drones)

Drones may be used for educational purposes as well as business purposes throughout Corning Union Elementary School District. These guidelines are intended to promote the responsible, safe, and legal use of UASs over district properties. While it is the responsibility of the drone user to understand and follow all government regulations, which will not be reprinted herein, this document will provide a summary of the information required by the prospective drone user prior to operating a UAS over district property or using a district-owned drone anywhere.
Risks

Risks

The use of drones poses unique risks, many of which are self-evident, such as the possibility of injury due to malfunction or misuse, or property damage to others and the drone itself. However, there are also risks that may not be quite so obvious. These include the possibility of charges of invasion of privacy (e.g., flying over someone's backyard), hitting a fire sprinkler when flown indoors causing water damage, and potential personal liability to the operator for damages/injury caused by illegal use (such as flying an unregistered drone, or flying without the proper government issued piloting certification).
Types of Operators

Types of Operators

Drones can be operated legally only under one of two FAA regulatory categories, and the drone user is responsible for assuring they follow all regulations under the appropriate option, and not operating illegally. If a drone is operated for district purposes in an illegal manner, the district’s insurance may not be able to cover the drone user or defend the drone user should a liability claim, or lawsuit be filed against them, and the drone user may be personally subject to significant government fines. It is important for the drone user to know which regulatory option they are operating under and understand (and follow) all regulations of that option.
 
Option One: Flying for hobby or recreation use ONLY.
This option is described under FAA Special Rule for Model Aircraft (Section 336)
 
Option Two: Flying for commercial use.
This option is described under the FAA's Small UAS Rule (Part 107)
 
Refer to CUESD Drone Guidelines for additional information on each type of drone user.  
 
Drone Safety Guidelines

Drone Safety Guidelines

The following must be adhered to operate any drone over district property, or to use a district-owned drone anywhere:
 
  • Refer to CUESD Procedures to request operating a UAS/Drone at a school site and/or district property
  • Register your
  • For commercial users, obtain the proper Remote Pilot Airman or Remote Pilot in Command Certification, and pertinent FAA certificates of authorization or
  • Notify all airports within 5 miles of your intended Document your notification.
  • Always conduct and document a pre-flight inspection, including specific aircraft and control station systems checks.
  • Fly your drone at or below 400
  • Keep your drone within your line of
  • Be aware of and compliant with FAA Airspace Restrictions
  • Respect privacy (i.e., do NOT fly over the private property)
  • Never fly near other aircraft, especially near airports
  • Never fly over people, public events, or stadiums when people are present
  • Never fly near emergencies such as fires or other types of disasters
  • Never fly indoors (with the exception of "mini-drones" under 55 lbs/8.8 ozs. with little or no potential to cause property damage or injury)
  • Never fly under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Never fly in excess of 100 mph
  • Be aware of local ordinances and regulations, including
  • Understand the risks to you, to others, and to the district, and take steps to reduce those risks.
Request to Operate UAS/Drone over District Property

Request to Operate UAS/Drone over District Property

Any District employee or student wishing to operate an Unmanned Aircraft System (“UAS”) as part of their job duties or as part of a district program must adhere to FAA guidelines and determine the type of drone operator appropriate for the intended use.
 
Any third party or hobbyist wishing to use a UAS or model aircraft over District property must first receive approval through CUESD District Office by filing a completed Request to Operate UAS/Drone and providing an Operating Plan at least ten (10) business days before the intended flight. Third parties planning to use a UAS must also provide proof of FAA approval, along with proof of insurance with a limit of no less than $1,000,000, and add the district as additional insured. The third party must also sign an agreement holding the district harmless from any resulting claims, harm to individuals, or damage to property.
Drone Use and Reques Documents

Drone Use and Reques Documents