FERNDALE, MI — No longer will residents be able to fly remote control planes or drones at public parks in Ferndale if a proposed ordinance passes tonight.
The popularity of drones has grown exponentially in past few years. With their proliferation comes concerns from lawmakers in Ferndale — and beyond.
Drones are capable of flying high, far and fast, and may be equipped with high-powered video cameras capable of seeing clearly into windows of private homes, apartments or businesses.
Although no serious drone issues have been reported, the Ferndale law would assuage general concerns. As written, the ordinance prohibits use of drones and model airplanes in public places by privates citizens. It would not apply to the military or law enforcement.
The language in the proposed ordinance says the purpose is to provide residents “protection from invasions of privacy” and avoid the “unreasonable safety concern” they pose to other aircraft in the sky and to residents or their property on the ground.