Unmanned Aircraft System (Drone) Deployment Summary

SCPD Drone Images (22) 

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones, help officers see crime and disaster scenes from the air, find missing people, solve incidents faster, and keep everyone safer.

A group of police officers has been chosen to be the first members of the Directed Aerial Response Team (DART). These officers are trained and certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the State of California. The department has also received FAA approval to use drones to better serve the community. 

How Drones May Be Used

The Department's policy authorizes use by a UAS Pilot in accordance with policy, constitutional rights, and FAA regulations for:

  •  Helping during disasters like earthquakes or floods
  • Searching for missing people and helping with rescues
  • Checking for possible explosive devices
  • Taking photos or videos of crime or crash scenes
  • Responding to fires and investigating after fires
  • Training flights to keep certifications current

How Drones May NOT be Used

The Department's policy strictly forbids activities as follows:

  • Targeting people based only on personal traits like race, religion, gender, disability, or sexual orientation
  • Harassing, threatening, or discriminating against anyone
  • Personal use or private business
  • Random or unnecessary surveillance

Drone Activity Log

2024 Activity
2023 Activity
2022 Activity

Are You a UAS Flyer?

Whether you are a new drone pilot or have years of experience, the FAA has established rules and safety tips to help you fly safely in national airspace. Learn more about becoming a certified pilot, registering your drone, airspace rules and flight requirements/restrictions on the FAA website.

Recreational users should always be sure to check where you can and cannot fly, via an approved online interactive map.


Last Updated:
03-02-2026