PLEASE NOTE: Updates to the University of Iowa's policy on drones were announced on September 4, 2018. The language in the new policy supersedes the language below. For details on the University of Iowa's new policy, visit the Office of Risk Management's website.

January 23, 2017

The University of Iowa has instituted a new policy governing the appropriate use of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), or drones, that use university property for takeoffs or landings.

Developed by the UAS Advisory Committee, the policy applies to all faculty, staff, and students, and others who launch or land a UAS on campus. The policy may be found at http://research.uiowa.edu/researchers/policies-and-compliance/use-drones-or-uncrewed-aerial-systems-uas. 

Among other things, the policy requires compliance with all relevant local, state, and federal laws, regulations, ordinances and UI policies.

“Drones offer tremendous opportunities for research, education, facilities management, data collection, and marketing,” said Dan Reed, Vice President for Research and Economic Development (OVPR&ED). “But we need to balance that against concerns for safety, privacy, and compliance with local and federal laws.”

Section D of the new policy outlines requirements for using UI property for the takeoff and/or landing of a drone, including permission requests. To request permission, or for more information, contact Richard Hichwa, Senior Associate Vice President for Research, at 319-335-2106 or richard-hichwa@uiowa.edu. 

Those who have concerns about specific instances of drone use on campus should contact the Department of Public Safety at 319-335-5022.