Drones

Definition: The term "unmanned aircraft" means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operation elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator In command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, drones,) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.)

Justification: This restriction covers all areas within the National Capital Parks-East, including Anacostia Park, Fort Washington, Greenbelt, the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, Oxon Cove, and Frederick Douglass Home as well as all other parklands, such as the Capital Hill parks, circles, squares and reservations.

The airspace above Stanton Park on Capitol Hill is classified as prohibited for the operation of all aircraft without specific permission. The remainder of the park falls within the closely regulated airspace associated with the major airports in the area, the heliport for the United States Park Police, and the Washington, D.C. Air Defense Identification zone. A portion of our parkland is in residential areas, close to multi-story buildings, and in a busy urban environment. Other sites are held sacred for their connection to honor our military. Wildlife and migratory birds, including threatened species, feed and roost within the park. Disturbances are kept to a minimum for the domesticated animals at Oxon Hill Farm. The driver distractions and safety hazards at the well-traveled thoroughfares, including the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, the Suitland Parkway, Anacostia Drive, for Davis and Fort Dupont Roads within Fort Dupont are to be minimized.

The launching and retrieval of unmanned aircraft, as distinguished from that of the operation of model aircraft (prohibited under 36 CFR§ 7.96 without a permit), is subject to the requirements of the National Park Service Management Policies 2006, Sections 1.5 and 8.1, "Appropriate Use."