A proposed bill in Alabama aims to set stricter regulations on drone operations near public schools, including high school football games. Filed by Rep. Cynthia Almond (R-Tuscaloosa), the legislation would require drone operators to obtain consent from school administrators before flying within 500 horizontal feet or 400 vertical feet of a school.
Violating this rule would be classified as a Class C misdemeanor, while using a drone to photograph or record a school within this restricted area would carry a Class A misdemeanor charge.
Concerns from commercial drone industry
The bill, which also expands existing laws on drone operations around correctional facilities, has drawn mixed reactions from commercial drone operators. Some have raised concerns that the legislation could create unnecessary hurdles for professionals who use drones for photography, videography and other services. Others argue that the bill may overstep federal jurisdiction, as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates national airspace.
Rep. Almond has defended the bill as a necessary measure to enhance safety and accountability in drone operations. She noted that there have been recent incidents involving unidentified drones flying near schools, demonstrating the need for a more structured regulatory framework.
While she acknowledged concerns from drone operators, Almond emphasized that the legislation does not outright ban drone use at school events, such as Friday night football games, but instead seeks to establish a clear process for approval.
In addition to school-related provisions, the bill strengthens privacy protections by making it a Class A misdemeanor to use a drone to observe individuals in locations where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as private residences and fenced yards. However, public spaces like parks and sidewalks are explicitly excluded from these restrictions.
The bill also updates definitions and distance restrictions around correctional facilities while outlining exceptions for authorized users, including law enforcement, corrections departments and military personnel. If passed, the new regulations will take effect on October 1, 2025, allowing time for public awareness and compliance preparation.
The Alabama House Judiciary Committee is set to review the bill on Wednesday, with a vote expected this week.
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