Drone Inspection Program

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or commonly referred to as “Drones” are being utilized as a valuable tool in the construction industry.  The Development Services Division has created a program that certifies and trains staff to pilot a drone to assist with performing building inspections. The Division will use drones to perform a variety of inspections, specifically the types of inspections that are difficult to access physically, or unsafe to navigate. Some examples of these types of inspections include rooftop mechanical, solar, framing, roofing, and shear wall inspections.

Our inspection staff who will be using drones are licensed as pilots by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fly under the FAA, Part 107 rules.  Additionally, each pilot must undergo flight training and testing to be eligible to pilot a drone. The City of Corvallis Development Services Division conducts all drone operations under FAA Part 107 rules and guidelines, as outlined in ORS 837.362.

Why Use Drones?

Drones are a tool that can be used to perform inspections in a safe and efficient manner.  An inspector would normally be required to climb up tall buildings, use ladders or scaffolding, and/or navigate uneven surfaces.  Additionally, inclement weather can also pose additional slip and safety hazards. Being able to use drones for these types of situations creates a safer work environment for City staff.

What About Privacy?

Ensuring privacy is paramount to the success of our drone program.  The Division follows an Operating Plan that focuses on privacy, transparency, and accountability.  A few of our operating requirements include:

• Permission must be obtained from the property owner/applicant to use a drone for an inspection.
• The drone will not fly over adjacent properties, people, or the public right-of-way.
• Photos or video will not be routinely taken. In rare situations, photos may be taken of the elements or items being inspected.   Photos taken using a drone will be included in the permit file and part of the public record.
• The drone will only be used for construction inspections associated with active permits and not for other types of cases or applications.
• The drone’s movements and location are tracked at all times while operating.
• Flight logs are kept for each time the drone is used.  Logs will contain the location, time, duration, and permit associated with each drone inspection.

Contact

For questions or additional information, please contact Calvin Albers, Building Official / Drone Program Coordinator, at 541-766-6581.