TOPIC:

The purpose of policies and procedures is to establish guidelines for best practices. P&Ps offer clear communication and help avoid inconsistencies in decision-making. Having a policy in place can be particularly beneficial when operating a program that could lead to legal ramifications should something go wrong.

Operating a drone or UAV for a business or government is one such program. Improper or careless drone use can lead to bodily injury, property damage, FAA violations and a number of other problems if a policy is not in place and followed.

I would like to share the drone policy recently adopted by the Elk Valley Rancheria via tribal resolution. Admittedly, the verbiage was borrowed heavily (with permission) from the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde model, but it is a good policy and there is no reason to reinvent. The document covers UAV use, personnel duties, projects, operational specs and other categories.

If you are developing a UAV policy for your tribe or department, please feel free to use the language in the attached policy. Additionally, feel free to make suggestions, ask questions or critique the document. There is always room for improvement.