The Federal Aviation Administration announced new regulations Monday that would require nearly all owners of remote-controlled recreational drones to register in an online database, marking the adminstrations latest effort to promote the responsible use of the aircraft.
This announcement comes on the heels of a study published by Bard College that highlighted the dangers drones pose to commercial aircraft when used irresponsibly, and also comes ahead of the holiday season, when an estimated 700,000 new drones are expected to be bought.
People 13 and older will be required to register their drones by Feb. 19, 2016, and although registration begins Dec. 21, it's possible for owners to begin the process now. The registration will include a $5 fee, and applies to owners of small drones weighing more than 0.55 and less than 55 pounds, including on-board equipmnent.
"Registrants will need to provide their name, home address and e-mail address. Upon completion of the registration process, the web application will generate a Certificate of Aircraft Registration/Proof of Ownership that will include a unique identification number for the UAS owner, which must be marked on the aircraft," the press release states, noting that registration will be free for the first 30 days.
Those who are caught flying after failing to register their drone by the allotted time will face severe penalties, according to the FAA. Civil penalties include a fine of up to $27,500, while criminal penalities include a fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years in jail, according to The Verge.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx notes that this measure is necessary and ensure operators are responsible while flying their drones.
"Make no mistake: unmanned aircraft enthusiasts are aviators and with that title comes a great deal of responsibility," U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in a statement. "Registration gives us an opportunity to work with these users to operate their unmanned aircraft safely. I'm excited to welcome these new aviators into the culture of safety and responsibility that defines American innovation."
