Rules for drones in Oregon Coast state parks reviewed Jan. 24

Posted 1/12/22 5:32 PM PST
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Oregon Coast) – Public input will be solicited at some point on drone rules on Oregon Coast state park properties, but a special virtual meeting will be held first. January 24. A review and discussion of proposed changes to the Oregon Bylaws will be considered. regarding taking off and landing drones in a state park and along the Oregon coast in general, and whether or not this will be banned in certain areas. (Above: Gold Beach by drone. Courtesy of Manuela Durson – see Manuela Durson Fine Arts for more)

The meeting begins at 10:30 am and will be webcast live on YouTube for the public at this link. The meeting agenda does not include time for public comment. However, public comments will be collected later and details will be posted on the proposed OPRD Rules webpage once the committee has reviewed the meeting.

Currently, there are no specific rules regarding drone theft in state parks or on the Oregon coast in general, with a few exceptions in certain sensitive areas such as around Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach. and Yaquina Head in Newport.

Katie Gauthier, relations and policy manager at the Oregon State Department of Parks and Recreation (OPRD), said the department has used certain rules to manage the take-off and landing of drones in certain areas, but not the actual flight over an area.

“In the areas, drone operations were restricted for a period of time when conflict with natural or cultural resources would occur,” Gauthier told Oregon Coast Beach Connection. “For example, when nesting birds hatch, we may restrict take-off and landing in certain areas, and the theft of objects like drones, kites, and gliders is prohibited in the few designated ocean shore areas. occupied by the western snow plover. “

Most of the advice right now is just common sense – don’t fly near people, traffic, historic structures, or lumpy landscapes. Be respectful of wildlife and people, and if a ranger asks you to stop or move elsewhere, cooperate.

The OPRD said to examine the destination of your state park to check for any restrictions.

“The proposed regulations will establish the first rules that will apply specifically to the take-off and landing of drones. State law required the agency to obtain legislative authorization before embarking on the development of drone rules, ”said Gauthier. “SB 109 passed in the 2021 legislature provided that endorsement.”

She said federal FAA regulations could prevent the OPRD from adopting rules for in-flight drones.

“Our rules will only apply to the take-off and landing of drones on state park property or by the ocean,” Guathier said.

At some point, the committee will want to hear from all stakeholders, such as drone pilots, local governments, businesses and others who may be affected.

Those who require special accommodations to attend meetings should contact Katie Gauthier at least three days before the meeting at 503-510-9678 or [email protected]

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