But Could Allow Exceptions On A Case-By-Case Basis

Officials in Pitkin County, CO, are considering an amendment to the county's land use code that would ban filming from helicopters except in special circumstances. But they tabled language that would have addressed privacy concerns from the use of UAVs.

The only circumstances in which a helicopter could be used for filming in the county under the revised code would be in a case that showed “a clear and demonstrable marketing benefit to the community.” Such events might include the USA Pro Challenge bicycle race, according to a report in the Aspen Times. Even then, the flight would have to be shown to not have any adverse effect on wildlife.

However, when the discussion turned to the use of UAVs for filming, the commission decided to put that issue on hold for the time being until more could be learned about how the aircraft might be used. Commissioner Rachel Richards said she would need "a better working familiarity with them before starting to say what is the appropriate code."

There was reportedly some discussion as to whether county restrictions on helicopters would run counter to FAA regulations governing airspace, but county attorney John Ely said the code would not regulate airspace, but rather restrict certain aircraft from certain uses. He said the county was not trying to stop helicopters from flying, or determine what aircraft could operate.

The paper reports that there has long been an unwritten ban on helicopters filming in the county, but that the commission has occasionally granted exceptions.

FMI: www.aspenpitkin.com