Drone Operations
About the UAS Program
The Fairfield Township Police Department utilizes Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to enhance public safety and support law enforcement operations. Drones provide officers with an aerial perspective that improves situational awareness and may be used for search and rescue missions, crime and crash scene documentation, emergency response, disaster assessment, and other lawful public safety purposes. All UAS operations are conducted in accordance with department policy, FAA regulations, and applicable law.
Pilot Qualifications and Training
The Fairfield Township Police Department carefully selects officers to serve as UAS Remote Pilots. Before operating a department drone, each pilot must earn and maintain a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and successfully complete department-approved advanced training. This training prepares pilots to safely and effectively conduct public safety missions while complying with FAA regulations, department policy, and applicable laws. To maintain proficiency, remote pilots participate in recurrent training and practical flight exercises throughout the year.
Community Privacy Commitment
The Fairfield Township Police Department recognizes that UAS technology must be used responsibly. Department drones are deployed only for legitimate public safety purposes and in accordance with department policy, FAA regulations, and applicable law. The department does not use drones for indiscriminate or random surveillance and remains committed to protecting the privacy and constitutional rights of the public.
UAS Flight Log Transparency
The Fairfield Township Police Department believes the responsible use of technology should be accompanied by openness and accountability. In addition to maintaining comprehensive policies and training standards, the department proactively publishes flight log information and other program resources to promote public understanding and confidence in our UAS program. These logs provide general information about departmental drone operations while recognizing that some records may contain information protected from disclosure under the Ohio Public Records Act. Certain details may be withheld, redacted, or generalized to protect investigative techniques, officer safety, individual privacy, or ongoing law enforcement operations. Each record is reviewed individually in accordance with applicable law before release.
FAQ
Why does the Fairfield Township Police Department use drones?
Drones provide officers with an aerial perspective that enhances public safety, improves situational awareness, and supports law enforcement operations such as search and rescue, crime and crash scene documentation, emergency response, and disaster assessment.
Who is authorized to operate department drones?
Only department personnel who have earned an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and successfully completed department-approved advanced UAS training are authorized to operate department drones.
Can the department fly drones over private property?
Drone operations are conducted in accordance with department policy, FAA regulations, and applicable state and federal laws. Each mission is evaluated based on its lawful purpose and operational need.
Does the department use drones for routine surveillance?
No. Department drones are deployed only for legitimate public safety and law enforcement purposes. The department does not use drones for indiscriminate or random surveillance of the public.
Are drone flights recorded?
Some drone missions may include photographs or video recordings when necessary for public safety, documentation, or evidentiary purposes. Records are retained and released in accordance with applicable records retention schedules and the Ohio Public Records Act.
Are drone flight logs available to the public?
Yes. The department periodically publishes a UAS Flight Log on this page as part of its commitment to transparency.
Does the department use thermal imaging?
Yes. Some department drones are equipped with thermal imaging technology that assists officers during search and rescue operations, emergency incidents, and other lawful public safety missions.
How many drones does the department have?
The Fairfield Township Police Department currently operates two FAA-registered unmanned aircraft.