The Metropolitan Police Department launched its Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program in June 2024 for situations where “eyes in the sky” will be critical to ensure a safe resolution for all.
MPD joins over 1,500 police departments across the country that use UAS — also known as drones — to aid officers in real time.
The program’s procedures are specified in MPD’s General Order 803.09.
Uses and Parameters
MPD uses drones to support only those operations cited in the General Order, including help with:
- Searching for missing persons
- Major traffic crash reconstruction
- Crowd management for large-scale gatherings
- Situational and tactical purposes (such as a barricade)
Drones operated by MPD are subject to specific operational limitations.
Drones will not be deployed to record a particular person or group based solely on:
- Race
- Color
- Religion
- National origin
- Sex
- Age
- Marital status
- Personal appearance
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity or expression
Drone flights must always adhere to airspace regulations and safety protocols.
Flights are restricted in inclement weather such as high winds, heavy rain, or low visibility to ensure safety and effectiveness.
The use of facial recognition and weapon capabilities are prohibited.
Management, Staffing and Oversight
Drone operations are managed by MPD’s Special Operations Division, whose trained pilots and flight observers plan and execute flights and manage flight data.
MPD maintains a robust accountability system for drone operations, including comprehensive pre-flight checks, post-flight debriefings, and documentation of all operational activities.
Public Notice and Privacy Concerns
MPD is committed to transparency regarding its use of drones. MPD will provide public notice of drone deployment when feasible and collaborate with community stakeholders to address any concerns.
Drone operations will be conducted in a manner consistent with constitutional rights and legal standards.
Evidence, Records and Access
Evidence collected by drones will be handled according to established evidentiary procedures.
Records and video shall be publicly released consistent with the District of Columbia Freedom of Information Act, DC Official Code §2-531 et seq.
Community members are encouraged to voice concerns through channels such as community meetings, online forums, or direct communication with MPD representatives.
FAQs About MPD's Drones Policy
See the complete set of FAQs regarding MPD's UAS Program policies.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Aircraft | Any contrivance invented, used, or designed to navigate, or fly in, the air. |
| Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) | The federal agency that regulates and oversees civil aviation in the US, including unmanned flight. |
| Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) | MPD’s centralized data-gathering hub that assembles, analyzes and distributes investigative information to officers in the field in real time. |
| Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) | The FAA license required to operate small Unmanned Aircraft Systems. |
| Remote Pilot in Charge (RPC) | The individual licensed to operate unmanned aircraft and responsible for ensuring flight operations are safe and comply with all regulations. |
| Temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) | The limited period of time for which the FAA restricts aircraft (including drones) from operating without permission. |
| Unmanned aircraft | Aircraft operated without direct human intervention from within or on board the aircraft. Also called remote-piloted aircraft or drones. |
| Unmanned aircraft system (UAS) | Drone and its associated elements, including communication links and components that control the drone and are required for safe and efficient operation. |
Drone Introductory Video
Learn more about the MPD UAS program in this brief introductory video that highlights the policies and procedures surrounding drone operations and depicts a sample scenario involving a missing child.
Mayor's Press Conference Announcing Drones
See Mayor Muriel Bowser and Chief Pamela A. Smith announce major upgrades to the Department's Air Support Unit, including the launch of the city's new Unmaned Aircraft System/Drones program.
Drone Flights
See a list of recent authorized Unmanned Aircraft System flights operated in the District of Columbia.
