Starting today, anyone flying drones in the Port of Long Beach will be required to obtain a permit before taking off or landing in the Harbor District, officials announced this afternoon.

Such permits must be obtained from the port’s Security Division with pilots needing to show proof of insurance, provide registration information and takeoff and landing plans, as well as obtain permission from occupants of any Port facilities to be overflown, according to a POLB release.

Once permits are obtained the port will post the plans for drone usage on the website to notify port tenants.

The new rules governing the use of these unmanned aircraft systems officially begin today, October 26, after they were approved as part of a recent tariff amendment by the Board of Harbor Commissioners aimed at heightening safety in and security of the port, officials said.

“Our security, risk management, and commercial operations staff worked closely with the Long Beach City Attorney’s Office to develop a permitting process that focuses on the safe usage of drones in the Harbor District, within the allowable legal parameters of the Federal Aviation Administration,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero in a statement. “The approved rules, with requirements for insurance and notifications, should enhance our ability to maintain a safe environment for cargo operations in the Port.”

Rules, requirements and how to obtain a permit can be found here. www.polb.com/drones. Questions can be directed to [email protected] or (562) 283-7800.

To report a careless and reckless drone operator, please contact Harbor Patrol Dispatch at (562) 283-7820. Careless and reckless operators can also be reported to the Federal Aviation Administration Regional Office at (425) 227-1999 or [email protected].

Above, left photo courtesy of POLB.