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Sonoma council introduces updated drone rules and rewrites filming rules, votes unanimously to proceed
Summary
The City Council voted unanimously to introduce an ordinance adding a new unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) chapter and to repeal and replace the citychapters tightening takeoff/landing, permitting and enforcement rules for drones and streamlining commercial filming permits.
The Sonoma City Council on a unanimous roll-call vote on July (date not specified) introduced an ordinance creating a new unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) chapter in the municipal code and repealing and replacing the citychapter governing commercial photography, filming and recording.
The new UAS chapter (SMC 7.42) establishes where drones may take off and land on public property, enforces Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules, allows exemptions for law enforcement and permitted commercial operations, and sets penalties and enforcement mechanisms, staff said. The revamped commercial filming chapter narrows code detail and shifts operational and procedural specifics into an implementing policy so the city can more readily adapt fees and operational conditions.
"Municipalities have limited authority over airspace, but we can address local impacts including takeoff and landing locations, use over public property and time, place and manner restrictions," Community Development Director Jennifer Gates told the council. Gates said the revisions also add the option for the council to reduce fees for charitable and student films.
The council heard questions from members about consistency with county rules, insurance and indemnification for permitted operations and public notification when filming affects businesses or roads. City staff said the proposed ordinance incorporates language consistent with Sonoma Countyprovisions, will require insurance for commercial drone filming, and that any road or business impacts will be coordinated with Public Works and noticed to businesses and property owners.
A public speaker from the Sonoma State College center, Richard Dale, addressed parks-related safety risks and noted a prior drone-caused fire at a state park. The council then moved to introduce the ordinance as amended and voted unanimously to advance it to the August hearing for adoption.
Whatnext: staff will return with a formal adoption hearing and an implementing film policy and fee schedule for council consideration.
