This bill amends existing law to prohibit the operation of unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones, over school properties under specific conditions. A person will commit a disorderly persons offense if they knowingly operate a drone below 250 feet over a school building or grounds for the purpose of surveillance or information gathering without prior written authorization from the superintendent or chief school administrator. Additionally, it is also a disorderly persons offense to hover a drone above the school or to use the school grounds as a takeoff or landing area for the drone.

The bill defines "school" as any public or nonpublic elementary or secondary institution in New Jersey that offers education for grades K-12. It clarifies that these restrictions do not apply to authorized drone use by public employees, public entities, or first responders performing their official duties, provided they comply with federal regulations. A disorderly persons offense under this bill is punishable by up to six months in prison, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:40-28