Drones

Drone policies are usually associated with Photography and Media Policies in each Burn's documentation - logically as Drones are most often used for the purposes of photography Given that they might have some other roles such as aerial art installations, deliveries, comms relay, etc it is considered worth separating the Drone from the Photography policies here.

Drone policies at each Burn will be significantly influenced by aviation and other regulations applying in the countries and States where events are held.

Nothing should be inferred by the absence of a declared Drone Policy at any event. The principle of Civic Responsibility imposes on all participants a requirement to act in accordance with local, state and federal laws.

Resonance

The rising popularity of remote control aircraft (drones, helicopters, multicopters, UAVs) has created a need for Wichita Burners to create an environment suitable for RC activity to proceed in the safest manner possible, while also respecting the privacy rights of participants.

Restrictions include, but are not limited to:

Flying sufficient distance away from theme camps and event structures, quiet camp or the effigy. Avoid flying near spectators until aircraft tested/flown previously. Flying no higher than 400 feet above ground.

Rules of Operation

Maximum altitude allowed per FAA is 400 feet above ground. Only visual line of sight flying per FAA, no long distance flying. No First Person View flying (flying based upon video stream not direct sight). Secure a safe place to take off, land, and emergency land. Fly when possible with a spotter to help control on-lookers, etc. 100 feet horizontal separation away from EMS, Police, Fire Department vehicles and their camp locations. 100 feet horizontal separation away from all heavy equipment and work crews. 100 feet horizontal separation away from all ground vehicles, artwork, sculptures, guide wires, kites, tethered aviation, etc. Avoid flying over or close to people, AMA recommendations are horizontal separation of 25 feet at least. No operating RC aircraft while intoxicated. If you are deemed intoxicated to the point that you are “illegal to drive” you may not fly. No use of ham bands including 433, 600, 900 MHz and 1.3 GHz unless a current Technician, General, or Amateur Extra License is shown. No amplified systems, for example: Dragonlink. If a pilot is acting in an unsafe manner either law enforcement or the Reso Rangers have the authority to confiscate the controller/transmitter and transfer it to the Board Member on Duty. If a crashed craft is found it will be transferred to the Board Member on Duty. Aircraft confiscated for flying unsafely, recklessly or in violation of rules will be transferred the Board Member on Duty.

Other Conditions

Please be aware that there are other rules and laws that may affect operations of an RC aircraft. For example, using an RC aircraft to photograph or videotape someone without their permission or for commercial purposes is not authorized under the Resonance Rules Agreement.

Intentionally or negligently injuring persons or property with an RC aircraft could lead to criminal assault and or battery charges. Be mindful of all laws, rules and regulations when operating an RC aircraft, and use common sense. If RC aircraft are operated unsafely then they will be subject to further regulation and restrictions in the future. Help make Resonance a place where RC aircraft are a valued part of the community.

See - Survival Guide

SOAK

All UAV operators must receive written permission from SOAK Producers before operating any remote aircraft.

All UAV Operators must be registered with the FAA ( https://faadronezone.faa.gov/ ). Each UAV must be clearly labeled on the outside of the drone with the registration number, pilot’s name and phone number. Note: The cost of registration is $5 and lasts 3 years.

All Operators must comply with generally accepted safety rules, including but not limited to: ● Follow community-based safety guidelines, as developed by organizations such as the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). ● Fly no higher than 400 feet above ground level and remain below any surrounding obstacles when possible. ● Keep your sUAS in eyesight at all times, and use an observer to assist if needed. ● Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations, and you must see and avoid other aircraft and obstacles at all times. ● Do not intentionally fly over unprotected persons or moving vehicles, and remain at least 25 feet away from individuals and vulnerable property. ● Do not fly in adverse weather conditions such as in high winds or reduced visibility. ● Do not fly under the influence of alcohol or drugs. ● Ensure the operating environment is safe and that the operator is competent and proficient in the operation of the sUAS.

All operators must carry liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 for any injuries or damage caused by the UAV. Satisfactory coverage can be obtained by joining the Academy of Model Aeronautics (http://www.modelaircraft.org/) Alternatively, hourly drone insurance can be purchased using Apps like Verifly https://www.verifly.com/ or if you have separate annual drone coverage. If you are flying a UAV be prepared to show you have insurance if asked by a Ranger. All operators must comply with SOAK’s policies on photography and videography. Remember that some people are particularly sensitive to privacy concerns in regards to UAVs, and all efforts should be taken to avoid taking photos or videos in which individuals could be personally identified without first obtaining permission. All operators must comply with requests from Rangers or SOAK Staff Members to avoid particular areas and cease operation immediately when requested. All operators must attend a mandatory safety meeting on Friday May 22nd, 2020 @ 11:00am at Central Services prior to operating their UAV or notify rangers of your activity. This will also be an opportunity to meet with other pilots and coordinate with each other. Have a partner monitor conditions under or around the UAV, and have them try to keep the area under the UAV clear of people and keep an eye out for unsafe conditions. If you fly your drone in a hazardous, obnoxious, or obtrusive manner, you may be asked to terminate your flight and have your privileges revoked. Avoid flying near events which have a sense of solemnity or quiet. Coordinate with other operators to minimize the number of UAVs in the air at any given time.

To apply contact: producers@soakpdx.com

Name:____________________ Playa Name:_______________ Address:__________________ Phone:___________________ FAA Registration #:__________ Make and Model of UAV:______ I certify that I have liability insurance with a minimum of [$1,000,000] property damage and personal injury coverage during flight. Insurance Company Name or AMA Membership ID: Insurance Policy #: ___ I agree to hold harmless Precipitation Northwest for any injuries or property damage caused by me in operating my UAV at the event. I agree to abide by the rules set forth herein, and agree not to allow anyone to operate the UAV who has not executed an agreement with Precipitation Northwest to do so.