ATLANTA — Days after mysterious drone sightings above the skies in New Jersey, the FAA is issuing guidelines regarding when and where you can fly drones and what you're allowed to do if you see one on your property.
Here in Atlanta, residents have contacted 11Alive concerned about possible sightings in their own skies.
It should be noted that 11Alive contacted the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the FBI Atlanta office, and local police departments about the discoveries. Each agency stated it wasn’t investigating reports of mysterious drones.
When and where you can fly them
According to the FAA, it is currently legal to fly in most locations; however, drone users do have to follow a few rules:
1. No flying near airports unless you have requested authorization from the FAA. In addition, you can't fly over "security-sensitive facilities" and military bases.
2. Most folks have to fly as a "recreational flyer," which means you need to take a safety knowledge test.
3. Can not fly below 400 feet and must keep the drone in sight
4. If you want to fly at night, you'll need a drone pilot certificate and the craft, which must have lights.
5. All drones over a half-pound must be registered with the FAA. In addition, you must place your registration number on the craft's exterior surface.
5. To fly multiple, you'll need a special waiver
Where can you land?
Anywhere is technically fine; just be sure the area is safe and not prohibited by local, state or federal laws.
What if one is over my house?
Don't shoot it! This is illegal under federal law and poses a serious safety risk. "But, it's unmanned," you say. Doesn't matter. A drone hit by gunfire could crash or collide with aircraft in the sky.
The FAA states that disregarding this warning could result in a civil penalty from the FAA or, worse, criminal charges.
So, what should you do? Contact law enforcement if you notice a drone flying unsafely above your home.
What national authorities are saying
The FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and FAA say many drone sightings in the Northeast are commercial, private and government air traffic devices mistaken for drones.
White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Monday the federal government has yet to identify any public safety or national security risks from any of the reported drone sightings in the northeast, saying officials believe they have lawfully flown drones, planes or even stars.
Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said it's unlikely the drones are engaged in intelligence gathering, given how loud and bright they are. He repeated on Tuesday that the Department of Defense is not operating the drones being reported.
President Biden remarked on Wednesday that there seems to be "nothing nefarious behind New Jersey drones."
For more on what officials are saying about the New Jersey sighting, click here.