Local Government Innovative Uses of Drones
Use of drones by government for firefighting and surveillance by law enforcement has been well covered in the news. Here are some other possible uses of drones being explored by local government. A full list, including some that are unlikely to get much traction (crowd control by way of drone-delivered pepper spray?) is here. As we have written elsewhere, even the most innocuous proposed use is likely to elicit concerns from the public and from privacy advocates unless local government engages in careful planning and an open public process prior to use of drones.
1. Somerville, MA is exploring use of drones to examine snow covered houses in order to make sure that roofs don’t collapse.
2. Greensboro, NC is considering use of drones to respond immediately and preliminarily to a 911 call to give first responders a preview of the scene.
3. Ann Arbor, MI is exploring using drones to map unpaved roads, discover potholes, and determine other road repair needs.
4. Duxbury, MA is considering using drones for purposes of building inspection and storm damage assessment.