Policy Number: II-10
Last Reviewed: September 6, 2023
Responsible Dept.: Vice President of Financial & Administrative Services
A signed copy of this policy is available in the President’s Office.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to govern the use of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in campus airspace to enhance the safety and privacy of students, staff, community members, and to protect college property.
Narrative
The use of drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is prohibited within the airspace and property of Virginia Western Community College, including interior and exterior campus areas, unless specific written permission has been received from the Chief of Campus Police. The prohibition applies to all unmanned aircraft operated by students and college employees as well as individuals or groups outside the college, due to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, risk management, and privacy and safety concerns.
Exceptions may be made by the college for institutional, research, and/or teaching use, provided the use complies with the Code of Virginia (commercial users must meet standards of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations if approved). Interested parties must submit in writing, any requests for drone and unmanned aerial vehicle use to the Chief of Campus Police.
This policy does not apply to the Virginia Western Police Department, or to any law enforcement agency, fire department, emergency management, railroad or utility company with jurisdictional or operational authority on or near the Colonial Avenue campus.
For questions, please contact the Chief of Campus Police at (540) 857-7797.
Concerns about unmanned aircraft/drones observed in Virginia Western airspace should be reported immediately to Campus Police at (540) 857-7979.
Approved: September 21, 2023
Last reviewed September 23, 2023
