Lesley University’s interim policy related to the use of drones and other unmanned aircraft systems on campus:
The operation of a drone on, in, or over Lesley University property or for purposes of Lesley University employment, study, other university activities, or recreation, is prohibited.
This policy applies to Lesley University employees, students, and contractors. We encourage everyone to leave drones and similar devices at home. Any drone owned by the university must be safely locked up.
Purpose
To address the safety of the community and to ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, Lesley University issues this interim policy governing the use of unmanned aircraft systems, also known as UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) or drones, to facilitate their safe and lawful use.
The university recognizes the importance of this emerging technology as it relates to university uses (aerial photography, art, mapping of various natural resources and other academic possibilities, community projects, marketing applications, and oversight of Lesley property and buildings).
However, according to current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules, almost all ownership and uses of drones require appropriate FAA registration or approval. The operation of drones or UAVs is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and relevant state law. Moreover, the operation of drones presents safety and privacy concerns.
Reporting & Violations
Anyone who observes someone using a drone is required to report it to the Public Safety Office immediately. Lesley’s Public Safety Office reserves the right to confiscate the drone if the drone is in use on the campus.
If any student, faculty, and/or staff is found to have violated this policy, it may constitute a violation of our Community Standards of Conduct Policy, and that person may be subject to disciplinary action.
Until this policy is superseded by a permanent one, this interim policy may be revised in writing by the Vice President for Administration as necessary or appropriate in light of institutional experience and/or external regulatory changes.
Date Effective
February 1, 2016 by the Vice President of Administration