The operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), also known as drones, has become increasingly popular for a growing number of educational, commercial, and safety purposes. UAS offer significant teaching and research opportunities at the University of North Georgia. At the same time, UAS present health, safety, and environmental risks, as well as privacy concerns that must be balanced with the University’s other missions. UAS are also heavily regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The Office of University Compliance provides oversight for the University UAS and questions can be directed to UniversityCompliance@ung.edu.
The university is committed to providing an innovative, safe, and secure environment for all individuals. To that end, the university’s Unmanned Aerial System Policy establishes safety practices, privacy restrictions, and oversight of UAS and model aircraft on university property and university-sponsored events. The UAS Policy applies to the following types of UAS Operations:
Anyone wishing to operate a UAS or model aircraft on UNG property or at a UNG-sponsored event is required to obtain approval from University Compliance prior to operation 14 days in advance of the requested flight date.
Pilots planning to fly under 400 feet in Class G (unrestricted airspace) do not require prior authorization from the FAA before flight. Pilots planning to fly under 400 feet in controlled airspace around airports must receive an airspace authorization from the FAA before flight. The pilot is required to check the B4UFLY App to ensure it is safe to fly in the designated area.
Third parties or vendors who seek to operate a UAS on UNG property or at a UNG-sponsored event will be asked to provide insurance coverage in the amount required by the University of North Georgia to cover UAS operations. For more information, please contact Risk Management at 706-864-1463.