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Buena Park to run one‑night drone pilot for July 4 fireworks enforcement; council stresses public notice
Summary
The council approved a targeted one‑night drone pilot (line‑of‑sight operations with a city pilot and contractor) for July 4 illegal‑fireworks enforcement; the vendor quote was $2,250 and the department said the effort is reactive and intended as a deterrent with robust public notification.
The City Council endorsed a one‑night pilot program to use a contracted unmanned aircraft system (UAS) for targeted illegal‑fireworks enforcement on July 4 between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. The pilot uses one DJI Mavic 3 operated under line‑of‑sight with a city pilot and contractor visual observer; the vendor Eagle Eye Services quoted $2,250 for the service.
Purpose and limitations: Chief Frank Nunes said the pilot is intended to enhance officer situational awareness, help locate fireworks hot spots and serve as a force multiplier for public‑safety resources on a single high‑demand holiday. ‘‘The UAS will serve as a force multiplier to enhance the police department’s ability to enforce the city's illegal firework ordinance in a safe, effective, and accountable manner,’’ Chief Nunes said. Staff emphasized the pilot is reactive—responding to calls for service or officer‑initiated activity—and will operate within FAA and department policy constraints.
Operational details, data and outreach: Staff explained footage will be reviewed for enforcement purposes only, contractor pilots will operate under police supervision, flights will be documented, and the contractor carries $1,000,000 liability insurance. Council members emphasized public notification to increase deterrence and suggested signage at fireworks sales booths, a marquee notice and text alerts.
Approval and next steps: Council supported the pilot and directed staff to include public outreach and visible notices so the community knows the drone will be used as part of the July 4 enforcement package. Staff said lessons learned will inform future enforcement and potential expansion of UAS use.
