Bans Flights Over Land And Buildings Owned Or Leased By The City

The Cook County, IL County Board passed an ordinance last week banning UAV flights over land and buildings leased or owned by the county, unless those flights are specifically authorized.

The Chicago Tribune reports that the ban, which takes effect immediately, means drones cannot be flown over such places as Stroger Hospital or the Cook County Jail. However, it does not apply to Daley Plaza or the forest preserves. Drones are allowed in designated areas in the forest preserves.

The sponsors of the ordinance, including Commissioner Gregg Goslin, raised concerns about contraband being flown into the county jail using drones, as well as future security risks as the technology evolves and matures. It is also intended to control the capture of video and still images from UAVS.

Violators face fines of up to $2,500.

Commissioner John Fritchey, one of the bill’s sponsors, said that while the commission had oped that the ordinance would not be needed, "we wanted to be clear that we would protect the safety and privacy of any individuals interacting with county property.”

(Image from file)

FMI: Original report