Facts for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
Continue to main contentSoutheast Missouri State University has implemented an approval process and procedures to ensure safe and responsible operation of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in, on, or above University property or at University-sponsored activities. The University policy applies to members of the University community (students, staff and faculty), third party contractors, and visitors. University practices are designed to be in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and other applicable laws.
You can also download this fact sheet to keep with your records.
Before you fly you need to complete the following steps.
Register your UAS
- The FAA requires UAS to be registered with the agency if the device will be used outdoors and weighs between 0.55 lbs and 55 lbs.
- Online registration is applicable to self-built or purchased devices.
- Registration is valid for three years.
- UAS must be marked with the registration number.
- Cost is $5
- Website – Register My UAS
- A copy of the registration certificate must be shared with the President’s Office at cmartin@semo.edu.
Request to Fly
- The University must pre-approve all UAS flights on campus prior to flying in outdoor areas and all indoor common spaces.
- Online request form
- Request specific days and times
- Reservation of athletic spaces will be made on your behalf
FAQ
Learn more below about the recreational, educational, government, and commercial operations authorized through FAA regulations.
Privacy, safety, and security issues will be taken into account when reviewing a request to fly a UAS on a Southeast campus. Requests may be denied based on the proposed locations proximity to buildings and people.
When planning to fly off campus, the UAS operator is responsible for obtaining the necessary permissions and abiding by all applicable regulations. Check out the FAA’s B4UFLY app, which helps UAS operators know about restrictions or requirements.
| Requirements | Small UAS Rule (Part 107) | Model Aircraft (Section 336) | Public COA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility Overview | Individuals engaged in faculty-led research, university operations (e.g. marketing, athletics, etc.) or commercial operations. Part 107 went into effect in August 2016. | Individuals engaged in education activities, hobby or recreation. Effective 2016, an Educational Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems interpretation addressed student use of an unmanned aircraft in furtherance of receiving instructions at accredited educational institutions. | Individuals flying with public entities, FAA test sites, centers of excellence and others with public certificates of authorization (COA). Collaborations with public COA holders may enable some UAS operations. |
| Examples of purpose | Research, education, building inspections, photography, land survey | Recreation, model aircraft clubs, coursework, undergraduate independent research | Research collaboration |
| Operator |
|
|
Refer to any applicable COA |
| Visual Observer |
|
|
Refer to any applicable COA |
| Aircraft |
|
Up to 55 lbs. (25 kg) | Refer to any applicable COA |
| Altitude Maximum |
|
400 feet above ground level | Refer to any applicable COA |
| Airspace location and operating environment |
|
|
Refer to any applicable COA |
| Other Aircraft | Must yield right of way to manned aircraft | Must yield right of way to manned aircraft | Refer to any applicable COA |
| Speed | Must fly at or below 100 mph | No speed limitation | Refer to any applicable COA |
| People | Must not fly directly over people | Remain at least 25 feet away from individuals any property | Refer to any applicable COA |
| Vehicles and Structures |
|
Avoid flying over unprotected vehicles or structures | Refer to any applicable COA |
| Legal or Regulatory Basis |
|
49 U.S.C. 40102(a)(41), 401125, and FAA Advisory Circular 00-1.1A, Public Aircraft Operations |
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701