Title
Resolution to Adopt the City of Ann Arbor Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Use Policy
Memorandum
The operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The attached policy details the actions the City of Ann Arbor will take to review city-facilitated UAS use; reduce risks to safety, security and privacy; and ensure that the best interests and obligations of the city are being met. It is guided by the principles of equity, accessibility, transparency, and respect for civil liberties. The intent is to ensure that UAS operations serve all community members fairly and do not perpetuate or exacerbate existing disparities or discrimination.
Budget/Fiscal Impact: There are no budget or fiscal impacts with adoption of this policy.
Staff
Prepared by: Mariah Walton, Deputy City Administrator
Andre Anderson, Police Chief
Mike Kennedy, Fire Chief
Reviewed by: Atleen Kaur, City Attorney
Approved by: Milton Dohoney Jr., City Administrator
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor is dedicated to embracing technologies that improve the level of service provided to the community to enhance a vibrant, safe, and diverse community;
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor is committed to identifying sustainable means of service delivery to reach our goal of carbon neutrality;
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor values the commitment of employees that work in hazardous working conditions;
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor is committed to providing and maintaining working conditions and equipment free of hazards;
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor embraces opportunities for in-depth data collection to better inform decision making to improve community health, safety, and sustainability;
Whereas, Staff’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) committee carefully drafted a policy to detail the actions the City of Ann Arbor will take to review city-facilitated UAS use; reduce risks to safety, security and privacy; and ensure that the best interests and obligations of the city are being met; and
Whereas, The Council Administration Committee reviewed a draft UAS policy at its July 8, 2025 meeting and approved a motion to bring forward a resolution to City Council to approve adoption of this policy;
RESOLVED, That the City Council adopts the City of Ann Arbor Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Use Policy and further authorizes the City Administrator to implement this resolution; and
RESOLVED, That City Council directs the City Administrator to report back within 6 months of the policy’s implementation on how drones have been used in order to help City Council determine whether any amendments or additional protections should be considered.
Sponsored by: Council Administration Committee
As Amended and Approved by Ann Arbor City Council on August 7, 2025