Riverside County Approves New Drone Policy Requiring Agency-Specific Safety Guidelines

Riverside County is tightening its rules on drone use across county-run departments. Supervisors unanimously approved a new policy Tuesday, known as A-76, which requires every agency that operates drones to create its own set of safety and operational guidelines.

The move aims to standardize how drones are used for law enforcement, emergency response, and public safety missions while ensuring compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 107 regulations, which govern pilot certification, airspace use, and maintenance.

Drones have already proven valuable tools for local agencies. In a recent five-week pilot program, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department reported handling 238 calls for service and capturing 21 suspects with drone assistance.

Officials emphasize that the new policy won’t change current sheriff operations but will create greater consistency across departments. The guidelines also prohibit weaponized drones and the use of AI facial recognition, ensuring transparency and privacy protections.

Other local agencies, like the Cathedral City Police Department, say they already follow strict FAA certification and safety training standards. County departments now have 60 days to submit their detailed drone operation plans for review.