If your UAS falls onto private property, what should you do?

• A. Trespass to retrieve it as quickly as possible.
• B. Return later with permission to retrieve.
• C. Call authorities and leave the device where it is.
• D. Do not trespass to retrieve it, obtain permission if necessary, and ensure privacy.

Answer: (D)

When a UAS ends up on private property, your first priority is to respect the property owner’s rights and their privacy. The right approach is to avoid entering the property without permission and to work with the owner to retrieve the drone.

Explain calmly to the owner or occupant that the drone is on their property and ask for permission to retrieve it. If they grant access, you can enter to fetch the drone, making sure you don’t intrude on private spaces or capture anything private in the process. If permission isn’t granted or if entering would raise safety or privacy concerns, step back and seek guidance from the owner or local authorities. This approach prevents potential trespass issues and protects privacy while you recover your equipment.