Tag Archives: MDOT Right-of-Way

Effective Immediately MDOT Prohibits Drone Use Within Their Right-of-Way

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In an effort to leverage innovative technologies in a safe and beneficial way for all citizens of Michigan, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has been working with other State of Michigan Agencies to develop policies for appropriate use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations within properties of the State, including MDOT Rights-of-Way. At this time those policies have not been finalized.

Effective immediately, and until further notice, MDOT strictly prohibits the operation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UVA’s) or drones within MDOT’s Right-of-Way by MDOT employees, contractors and/or subcontractors, consultants and/or subconsultants, suppliers, local road authorities’ employees or their agents, and MDOT permit customers. This does not prohibit local road authorities’ employees or their agents use of this technology within their own Right-of-Way.

MDOT acknowledges that responsible use of this technology is promising for many survey, construction and operation data collection and monitoring activities, and is anticipated to provide many safety, efficiency and cost savings benefits. MDOT will be evaluating and establishing safety and operational protocols, along with necessary processes for the appropriate and effective use of this technology through current on-going academic research. The departments number one priority is the establishment of protocols that will ensure the operations of this technology do not present undue risk to motorists, pedestrians, employees, and property within the ROW in the future.

MDOT will continue to coordinate with the League and other industry partners to develop the guidance, advisories and contract language necessary to allow for the controlled use use of this technology within their ROW in the future.

If you have any questions please contact Steve Cook at 517-636-4094 or cooks9@michigan.gov.

John LaMacchia is the Assistant Director of State Affairs for the League handling transportation, infrastructure, energy and environment issues. He can be reached at jlamacchia@mml.org or 517-908-0303.