Although drone operating is legal in Florida, their use continues to raise concerns when it comes to privacy as drones are constantly being used for recreational purposes, the government, and commercial purposes.
This has caused many to express their concerns about drones flying over their private homes without their consent.
The anti-drone act in Florida is a law indicating that it is unlawful to operate a drone between zero to five hundred feet over private property without the permission of the property owner.
Although drones are constantly being used for good purposes, the main question that everyone is asking is, ‘Are drones doing more harm than good?’
“I believe drones should be able to be used in public spaces, but with proper notifications from officials. With FAMU being a public campus, I believe if individuals want to fly a drone on campus, they need to inform the proper officials on what they plan on doing,” Elijah Townsend-Avella, a FAMU student, said.
Many Florida residents believe there should be an amber alert or residential alert system that lets people know that there will be a drone flying and the time in which it will be flying.
Many citizens have said over and over again that there should be more rules and regulations implemented to protect drone use and privacy. However, some professional drone operators do not agree. They argue against more laws and regulations being applied to the state’s drone use.
“As a drone operator, I disagree with having stricter guidelines for drone use because once you turn on your drone, if it is not in a fly zone, it won’t even take off. If you are too close to an incoming plane, it will force land; therefore, it’s almost impossible to break a law with drones,” Terrence Armand, a well-known
Jacksonville professional photographer and videographer, said.
According to Floridanow.com, the FAA’s proposed penalties follow the guidelines of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, which allows fines of up to $75,000 per violation. In addition to financial penalties, the FAA can suspend or revoke drone operators’ pilot certificates, reinforcing the importance of adhering to safety regulations.
“Before you go out and fly a drone, take a drone operating course. It is very inexpensive and can be done in a day. It’s important to get your pilot license so you can understand the guidelines and regulations placed on drones. Come join a safe and lucrative lane that everyone can benefit from,” Armand said.