UVM UAS Team eBee taking flight

The University of Vermont recognizes that Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, are gaining in popularity in recreation, research, and commercial use.  We have also recognized that operating these aircraft on campus is difficult, to say the least.  With our close proximity to Burlington International, the state's busiest airport, and being nestled in the City of Burlington, flight operations are complex and requires a great deal of planning and preparation.  As such, we have developed a policy with the goal to allow UAS operation with approval by a committee of UAS, risk management, and public safety representatives known as the UAS Working Group.  Their goal is to provide opportunities to utilize this technology when it is done so in a safe and responsible manner.  We are not currently allowing students to operate drones on campus for recreational or hobby flying but we are working with several students who are developing a Drone Club on campus with the goal to identify a safe area to fly.  

Please refer to the Unmanned Aircraft (Drones and Model Aircraft) Interim University Operation Procedure for guidance on UAS operations on campus or flying off campus when representing the University of Vermont.

If you would like to apply to fly UAS on campus for commercial or research purposes please fill out PDF icon UAS application packet.pdf.  Return instructions are included.  This will be reviewed by the UAS working group and returned with approval, disapproval, or with approval pending modifications.  

Students interested in UAS operations can apply to work for the University of Vermont Spatial Analysis Lab.  The lab runs the University's Unmanned Aircraft Systems team, a leading research and disaster response team using UAS.  A UAS and Drone club is being developed by UVM Students.

FAA 333 and Part 107 UAS rules

Due to our proximity to a busy airport and our desire to operate UAS in a safe manner, anyone using UAS on campus must be compliant with FAA rules and regulations and will require a 333 Exemption or  licensing created with Part 107 of the FAA code of regulations.  These regulations ensure that operators are using the current best practices and have met baseline levels of training and certification.  All aircraft must be registered with the FAA.  Violating campus policies can result in disciplinary actions.