How the regulations apply to police drone operations
Police UAS operations fall outside the scope of UK Regulation (EU) 2019/947. This is because these activities are outside the scope of the primary legislation that this regulation falls under (UK Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 – ‘The Basic Regulation’), as set out in Article 2.
There is, however, a requirement for the CAA to ensure that police UAS operations take due regard of the safety objectives of the Basic Regulation, and that they are separated safely from other aircraft. Additionally, the Air Navigation Order 2016 requirements still apply, including (but not limited to) the requirement to not recklessly or negligently act in a manner likely to endanger an aircraft, and to not recklessly or negligently cause or permit an unmanned aircraft to endanger any person or property.
The CAA is actively engaged with the Department for Transport and other government agencies to establish suitable policy to cover this area.
Enforcing the regulations
The Police are responsible for taking enforcement action when it is believed that the requirements of the law have not been met.
Depending on the circumstances, this action could be taken against the operator, remote pilot, or both. Penalties range from warnings to the confiscation of drones and even imprisonment.
If you have any concerns about unmanned aircraft being used in your area, either from a safety or privacy perspective, contact your local police on 101 or if it is an immediate threat to safety or security call 999.