Policy
The operation of unmanned aircraft systems (“UAS”) or drones is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration and the State of Florida. The use of drones raises significant safety and privacy concerns. Violations of federal and state laws regulating their use can result in substantial legal penalties for the university and the operator. This policy is established to mitigate safety risks and ensure compliance with relevant federal and state laws.
Procedure
All use of university-owned unmanned aircraft systems by employees and students is subject to the following restrictions:
The use of university drones is limited to educational and research purposes. The recreational use of drones on Florida Tech property is not permitted. For purposes of this policy, Florida Tech property includes buildings, grounds, and land owned by, controlled by or leased by Florida Tech, including those properties lying outside of the Main Campus.
All unmanned aircraft systems must be registered through the Office of Compliance and Risk Management (OCRM) to ensure registration and approval by the FAA and liability insurance coverage for operating the UAS. Civil and criminal penalties may apply for failure to register a UAS.
The purchase of a UAS must be coordinated and approved by OCRM and Procurement Services to ensure purchasing compliance, compliance with export controls, and weight and wingspan limits for insurance purposes.
University employees or students desiring to operate an unmanned aircraft system in conjunction with a university program on campus or at an off-campus location must:
Third Parties or Contract Operators
The use of an unmanned aircraft system by a third party or commercial operator over Florida Tech property requires the pre-approval of OCRM. Documentation evidencing FAA approval and a certificate of insurance indicating general liability, aviation liability, or equivalent, naming the university as an additional insured, and a minimum of $1million in coverage written on an occurrence basis, are minimum requirements for approval. A representative of the university must accompany the operator during UAS operations on or above Florida Tech property.
Sanctions
Any violations of law may subject the responsible party to both criminal and/or disciplinary action.