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Mission:
The mission of the Town of Summerville’s Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drone) Program is to offer aerial services in a manner that is safe, responsible, and transparent. We aim to enhance the safety and well-being of the citizens of Summerville through the strategic and ethical use of drone technology.
Overview:
The Town of Summerville’s Unmanned Aerial Systems Program is a multi-departmental initiative that employs drone technology to optimize various facets of municipal services and public safety. The program involves trained operators from the Police, Fire, GIS, Public Information, and Planning Departments, among others. While the Police Department uses drones for search and rescue missions and suspect apprehension, the Fire Department utilizes them for fire monitoring and emergency response planning. GIS and Planning Departments use drone-acquired data for terrain mapping, infrastructure planning, and land-use studies. The Public Information Office leverages the technology for real-time information dissemination during public events or emergencies. Compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and a strong commitment to privacy rights are foundational to the program. A robust system of accountability and transparency, including detailed flight logs and monthly public reporting, ensures responsible use across all participating departments.
Meet the Program Team
- Town Program Manager: Chris Makowski, Public Information Officer
- Public Safety Program Manager: Andre Lafon, SPD Air Support Unit
- Summerville Public Safety Pilots: Andre Lafon, Ian Anderson, Jagger Kenyon
- Town Hall Pilots: Chris Makowski
Additional Resources
- Summerville Drone Program – Community Feedback Form
- Unmanned Aerial Systems Program Policy
- Powerpoint Presentation To Council (Standing Committees May 8, 2023, 5:30 p.m.)
- FAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drone) FAQs
- Part 107 FAA Summary Sheet
- FAA Drone Website
- Know Before You Fly: An education campaign to educate prospective users about the safe and responsible operation of drones and/or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
- Learn more about the new Remote ID Rule
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Source: Town of Summerville, South Carolina
