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Hazel Park advances unmanned-aircraft ordinance to set local expectations for drones
Summary
Council moved and passed an ordinance adding Chapter 8.06 (Unmanned Aircraft), setting local expectations for hobbyists and commercial operators while recognizing FAA authority; staff emphasized enforcement tools limited by federal jurisdiction.
The Hazel Park City Council on April 14 advanced an ordinance to add Chapter 8.06 (Unmanned Aircraft) to Title 8 of the municipal code, aiming to establish local expectations for drone operation and provide municipal enforcement options for takeoffs/landings and safety concerns.
Councilperson Luke Lando described the ordinance as an attempt to "level the playing field" among hobbyists, photographers and commercial operators while acknowledging that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) retains primary jurisdiction over airspace. Lando and administration thanked Police Chief Hamel and staff, and emphasized that the ordinance mirrors some FAA rules to give local enforcement another option when public-safety or nuisance issues arise.
What the council did: Administration recommended approval; a motion to approve the ordinance (first reading) was moved and passed on the record (vote tally not specified). Councilmembers noted that the city's enforcement authority is limited by federal law and that the ordinance is intended to clarify expectations and provide local options for enforcement if incidents occur.
Next steps: The ordinance was advanced on first reading; staff will coordinate with police, the city attorney and stakeholders on enforcement protocols and outreach to drone operators.
