Would Create Guidelines For Operation Of Commercial And Hobby Aircraft

Another bill placing restrictions on drone operations at a state-wide level is making its way through a state legislature.

The West Virginia State Senate has passed Senate Bill 9, which would codify restrictions on the operation of both commercial and hobbyist drones.

West Virginia Public Broadcasting reports that the bill bans flight of a drone within 100 feet of someone else's home, and stipulates that a drone operator cannot take images on someone else's property without their express permission. It also requires law enforcement to obtain a warrant before a drone can be used in an investigation, though there are exceptions for police officers to use drones in SAR operations.

Also banned is the capturing of still or video images at industrial sites, like coal mines or power plants.

There are several exemptions for media outlets who obtain a license from the FAA, according to the report.

The legislation creates a distinction between taking wide aerial shots where there is no "reasonable expectation of privacy" and getting closer views of a person's home, or inside a home "where there is an expectation of privacy."

Breaking the law could be punishable by fines and/or jail time.

The bill must still clear the West Virginia House of Representatives.

(Image from file)

FMI: Bill Text