Georgia City Bans Drones Over City Gatherings

Officials in Augusta, Ga., have voted to ban drone flights year-round over crowded areas.

The Augusta Chronicle reports that after having banned the devices during the Masters golf tournament, the Augusta Commission voted 7-2 on March 1 to ban drones throughout the year.

The ban, which requires a second reading, applies to events with a seating capacity of 100 or more or where 100 or more people are gathered.

The vote came after the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office urged the committee to extend the ban they had recently instituted regarding the Masters.

Commissioner Mary Davis, who voted against the ordinance, says officials should have sought public input first.

Sheriff’s Capt. Scott Gay says the devices pose dangers to crowds throughout the year.

Violators are subject to a $1,000 fine and up to 60 days in jail.

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Topics Georgia Drones