The Burbank Police Department wants to ensure the local community is aware the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently issued new rules related to Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. A federal rule, effective December 21, 2015, requires unmanned aircraft registration, and you are subject to civil and criminal penalties if you do not register.
Unmanned aircraft weighing less than 55 pounds and more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) on takeoff, including everything that is on board or otherwise attached to the aircraft and operated outdoors in the national airspace system must register. Owners must register under the new web-based registration system (www.faa.gov/uas/registration). There is a $5 registration fee, but that will be refunded if you register prior to January 20, 2016.
Failure to register an aircraft may result in regulatory and criminal sanctions. The FAA may assess civil penalties up to $27,500. Criminal penalties include fines of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment for up to three years.
All incorporated parts of Burbank are within five miles of the Burbank Bob Hope Airport (KBUR). The FAA requires anyone who operates a drone within five miles of an airport to contact the airport and control tower before flying.
The Burbank Police Department expects many folks will give and receive UAS or drones as gifts during the Christmas season, so they want to make sure everyone is aware of the new regulations.