May 31, 2016Hempstead Town Proposes Law to Ban Drones at Local Facilities

Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino recently announced his proposal to make local beaches, parks, pools, golf courses, preserves and other facilities “no drone zones.”

During a press conference at Civic Beach in Point Lookout on Friday, Santino introduced the propose legislation that would ban the use of drones in certain areas.

He stated that the proposed restriction would “protect the privacy of residents, ensure the safety of park goers and protect wildlife by putting a stop to the noise and nuisance associated with the remote-controlled aircraft.”

He was joined by Councilman Anthony D’Esposito, Town Clerk Nasrin Ahmad and Receiver of Taxes Don Clavin as well as local Point Lookout homeowners.

“As the summer season is about to start, I think it is the perfect time to restrict the use of drones at our town’s beaches, pools, parks, preserves and other places where neighbors come to enjoy peace, tranquility and privacy,” Santino said. “What’s more, residents deserve to enjoy a safe setting at town facilities that is free of the noise and nuisance associated with drones.”

Under the proposed law, enforcement officers in the town’s building department, public safety division, highway department and sanitation workforce would regulate drone usage at local facilities.

Restricted use of drones would be allowed through a permitting process to be overseen by the Hempstead Town Clerk.

Penalties for violating the proposed ordinance would range from $500 for a first offense to $1,500 for a third violation.

The officials, who have studied the impact, consequences and dangers of unrestricted drone usage, have stated that the drones have been causing injuries and property damage by accidentally hitting people, cars and wildlife.

Last October, a drone being used for photography crashed into a business on Main Street in Sag Harbor and burst into flames.

In addition, the officials addressed the concern of the privacy of town residents in roofless dressing areas at municipal pools as well as beach cabanas and individual boats at town marinas.

At the same time, Santino stated that town residents who visit nature preserves, beaches and golf courses have a “reasonable expectation” to enjoy town facilities without the noise and nuisance presented by drones flying in an unrestricted manner at these locations.

“The privacy of park patrons and protection of wildlife are important priorities to which I am committed, and controlling the use of drones in our town will help to achieve these priorities,” D’Esposito said.

The proposed law will be discussed at a public hearing at the Hempstead Town Board meeting on June 7.

“Hempstead Town has the best beaches, pools, parks and nature preserves anywhere,” Santino said. “By restricting the use of drones at these and other town locations, we will keep neighbors safer and ensure their enjoyment of everything the town has to offer without the noise and nuisance of drones.”