Ashland passes new drone rules

Columbia Missourian

COLUMBIA — Those looking to fly drones in Ashland will need to comply with new rules approved by the town's Board of Aldermen on Tuesday.

The aldermen voted unanimously to prohibit flying drones higher than 130 feet, to outlaw their flight within five miles of Columbia Regional Airport and to require a person to have permission before flying a drone over a neighbor's property.

Acting City Administrator Lyn Woolford said the aldermen anticipate that drones will quickly become more popular as they continue to get less expensive.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, drones must:

• Remain below 400 feet.

• Avoid any obstacles.

• Avoid any manned aircraft systems.

• Not fly out of the controller's vision.

• Not fly within five miles of any airport.

• Not fly near people or stadiums.

• Not weigh more than 55 pounds.

• Not be careless or reckless.