The use drones for planning and its related fields has obvious and immediate potential. So far, however, the use of drones lacks a coherent regulatory framework.
According to an article by Katherine Robison, "there is currently no comprehensive framework governing 1) the use of drones in U.S. airspace and 2) the use of data captured by these drones."
What exists instead is a "patchwork" of laws and regulations, including efforts by the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and state governments.
Robison cites a recently approved law in Florida, called the Freedom from Unwarranted Surveillance Act (SB 766), which specifically prohibits the use of drones to capture images of private property without the owner's consent.
A federal bill [pdf], recently authored by Sen. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) and Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), would fill the gaps in regulation for drones. According to Robison, "[the] Drone Aircraft Privacy and Transparency Act of 2015 include transparency requirements and limits the law enforcement use of drones, requiring either a warrant or exigent circumstances."
FULL STORY: REGULATING DRONES AND PRIVACY: SO FAR, A PIECEMEAL APPROACH
Concord, New Hampshire to Draft a Form-Based Code
Concord will become the latest city to add a form-based code to its menu of development regulations.
Planners Experiment with Unmanned Aerial Systems to Improve Maine Towns
Maine planners are finding new ways to use aerial photos and drone technology to improve transportation and environmental planning.
How Drones Can Improve Planning and Design
In February, the Federal Aviation Administration released rules for the commercial operation of drones that were (to many observers) surprisingly business friendly. A landscape architect imagines the potential of drones for planning and design.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.
Private Donations Propel Early Restoration of Palisades Playground
Los Angeles has secured over $1.3 million in private funding to restore the Pacific Palisades playground months ahead of schedule, creating a modern, accessible space that supports community healing after recent wildfires.
From Blight to Benefit: Early Results From California’s Equitable Cleanup Program
The Equitable Community Revitalization Grant (ECRG) program is reshaping brownfield redevelopment by prioritizing projects in low-income and environmental justice communities, emphasizing equity, transparency, and community benefits.
Planting Relief: Tackling Las Vegas Heat One Tree at a Time
Nevada Plants, a Las Vegas-based nonprofit, is combating the city’s extreme urban heat by giving away trees to residents in underserved neighborhoods, promoting shade, sustainability, and community health.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Ascent Environmental
Borough of Carlisle
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service