Rockland County Considers Tighter Restrictions For Drones
NEW CITY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Concerns about the growing use of unmanned aircraft are prompting Rockland County lawmakers to consider new regulations on drones.
Legislator Jay Hood, Jr. is proposing a law that would limit drones to public parks and private property with permission.
The proposal comes after Sheriff Lou Falco told Hood of "possible illicit uses" of drones around county property such as the jail complex, according to a press release from Hood's office.
Lawmakers say this is a matter of safety and privacy.
"Drones may be purchased by sex offenders or individuals with criminal backgrounds and used for unlawful purposes," Hood said in a statement. "These aircraft can be used by peeping toms or a contentious neighbor. A resident should have a reasonable expectation of privacy in his or her home."
Federal regulations prohibit drones near airports, aircraft, crowds and sensitive locations, such as utilities and government buildings, WCBS 880's Sean Adams reported.
A public hearing is set for next Tuesday.