Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Pilot Program

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Pilot Program Purpose

The purpose of this pilot program focuses on un-permitted cannabis cultivation within Nevada County. The program benefits include improved staff safety, efficiency and more effectiveness, and supporting the community complaint-driven process. In 2020, the Cannabis Compliance division received 167 complaints. But due to sight obstructions and barriers, 32% of the sites remain unverifiable. This program aims to add another tool in the enforcement of unpermitted cannabis grows. 

UAS Procedure Example

  • Neighborhood complaint received.
  • Staff will attempt to inspect from publicly accessible areas, reporting party's parcel, or another vantage point.
  • UAS operation plan approved by the division Program manager.
  • Certified staff member operates UAS vertically from the publicly accessible areas, being mindful of neighborhood privacy, noise, nuisances. Flight not to exceed 400 feet. 
  • If no violation is observed, no photos are taken, and flight is ended. If violations are observed, necessary photos of the violation only are taken. 
  • UAS is returned to the operator and inspection is ended.

    Staff flying UAS straight up 400 ft over public road to see over fences, trees, rv/campers.


UAS Documents

  1. UAS Pilot Program Procedures
  2. UAS Presentation (08-10-21)
  1. What will the UAS be used for?
  2. What exact steps is the county doing to ensure no one’s privacy is invaded (neighbors, persons at site, etc.)?
  3. Who will operate the UAS and what is their level of training?
View All