Title
UAS (Drone) Program Update
Description
This item updates the Public Safety and Justice Subcommittee on the Fire, Police, Parks, and Communications departments Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) programs and how UAS is being utilized by each department.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION.
Report
Summary
Program History / Inception
In 2021, the City Manager’s Office established a working group to evaluate the implementation of UAS programs across various departments. Departments seeking to establish a UAS program were required to obtain initial approval from the Technical Security & Privacy Committee, followed by final approval from the UAS Executive Committee. This governance structure ensures that each program is thoroughly vetted and aligns with the overarching City of Phoenix UAS Policy. In 2022, the Fire and Police departments became the first to launch UAS programs, paving the way for broader adoption. The Parks and Recreation Department and the Communications Office followed suit, introducing their UAS programs in 2024. The most recent Department to receive approval for a program is Public Works. Public Works staff are still in the initial stages of their program and have not started utilizing drones as of March 2025.
Personnel / Training
Each department has a unique deployment model and identified personnel to support UAS operations. To ensure safe and effective use, each department maintains its own training program and operational requirements tailored to its specific mission needs. These training programs ensure that personnel are properly certified, proficient in UAS operations, and compliant with all regulatory and city-specific guidelines.
Use Cases
The City of Phoenix departments utilizing UAS have a variety of use cases tailored to their specific operational needs. UAS technology serves as a critical force multiplier across all programs. UAS enhance efficiency, improve situational awareness, and increase safety by providing rapid aerial assessments, and minimizing risks to personnel. Whether supporting emergency operations, infrastructure inspections, or public safety initiatives, UAS continues to be an invaluable tool in optimizing city resources and enhancing service delivery.
Success Stories / Benefits
The City of Phoenix’s UAS programs have delivered significant benefits across multiple departments, enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and decision-making. Each department has successfully integrated UAS technology to improve service delivery and optimize resources. With a wide range of use cases, UAS has consistently proven to be a valuable tool in supporting departmental missions and enhancing services to our residents.
Future
The future of UAS within City of Phoenix departments is focused on continued innovation and expanded integration to enhance efficiency, safety, and service delivery. As technology evolves, departments will explore new ways to leverage UAS for real-time situational awareness, automated operations, and data-driven decision-making. By continuously advancing UAS capabilities, the City of Phoenix remains committed to utilizing this technology to better serve the community while maintaining responsible governance and operational excellence.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Lori Bays, and the Fire, Police, and Parks and Recreation Departments, and the Communications Office.