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disaster response (i.e., flood, earthquake, fire), suspected explosive devices, pursuant to a
<br />warrant (search or arrest), special events, outside public agency assists and mutual aid
<br />support when the underlying mission meets the uses outlined in agency policy, training flights
<br />as required to meet FAA and the Departments certification standards, searching for wanted
<br />suspects, and demonstrations to the public (i.e. flight demonstrations to the public).
<br />Fiscal Impacts: In 2024, the Department estimated approximately $87,000 to initiate a basic,
<br />patrol-led drone program focused on limited tactical deployments. In 2025, that initial phase
<br />was implemented at approximately $93,636, which included acquisition of four Skydio X10
<br />patrol drones, supporting equipment, and comprehensive pilot training. The remaining
<br />$11,731.68 was for the DJI platforms necessary for indoor operations and training.
<br />The proposed expansion of the Department’s Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) program
<br />builds upon the existing Drone as First Responder (DFR) pilot program and includes
<br />additional interior drone capabilities, airspace safety monitoring, and counter-UAS
<br />capabilities. The estimated cost for the UAS program is approximately $240,000 annually
<br />over a five-year period. The funding source for this military equipment acquisition,
<br />maintenance, and related operational expenses during the calendar year following
<br />submission of this Annual Military Equipment Report is anticipated to be provided through the
<br />City’s General Fund, subject to City Council approval.
<br />This proposed expansion also includes several scheduled hardware refreshes, software
<br />support and updates, and repair/replacement plans, however non-covered repair or
<br />replacement costs are possible and are estimated to cost no more than $10,000 - 20,000
<br />yearly.
<br />There is no fiscal impact for the equipment owned, maintained, and operated by RCFD,
<br />SMCSO, DCPD, SBPD, or APD.
<br />Legal/Procedural Rules Governing Use: The use of unmanned, remotely piloted, powered
<br />ground vehicles potentially involves privacy considerations. Absent a warrant or exigent
<br />circumstances, operators and observers shall adhere to all applicable privacy laws and shall
<br />not intentionally record or transmit images of any location where a person would have a
<br />reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., residence, yard, or enclosure). In accordance with
<br />all State and Local laws and any applicable Redwood City Policies.
<br />The requested acquisition of five (5) Skydio X10 aircraft with Dock (DFR) systems and six (6)
<br />Skydio R10 aircraft, pending approval by the City Council, will be incorporated into the
<br />department’s operational framework and governed under RCPD Lexipol Policy 703. Inclusion
<br />in this policy will ensure that the deployment, operation, and management of these unmanned
<br />aircraft systems comply with established departmental guidelines, safety standards, and
<br />regulatory requirements.
<br />Training Required: Upon selection to the collateral assignment of UAS Operator, new
<br />members shall acquire an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate under the FAA's Small UAS Rule
<br />(Part 107). To maintain a level of proficiency with the UAS, operators will be required to
<br />attend regular training, as defined in the Operations Manual. Failure to demonstrate
<br />proficiency can result in removal from the UAS Team.
<br />The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, Redwood City Fire Department, San Mateo Police
<br />Department, San Bruno Police Department, and Atherton Police Department provide internal
<br />ATTY/DOCS-POLICIES/2026/RCPD POLICY #703 - MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE POLICY REV: 04-07-26 VR
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