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South Carolina Poised to Enact New Drone Regulations

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/04/0 .. olina-poised-to-enact-new-drone-regulations.html
  Published in House and Home on Thursday, April 9th 2026 at 5:35 GMT by WMBF News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

COLUMBIA, S.C. - April 9, 2026 - South Carolina is on the cusp of enacting significant new regulations governing drone operation within its borders. The proposed "Drone Accountability and Safety Act," currently navigating the legislative process, represents a major step toward addressing the complex interplay of public safety, individual privacy, and burgeoning technological innovation in the rapidly evolving world of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). While the initial bill sparked debate in 2026, public discourse and further amendments have shaped a more nuanced and potentially comprehensive framework.

The initial impetus for the legislation, first proposed in 2024, stemmed from a documented surge in drone activity across the state. Lawmakers cited increasing instances of drones operating near critical infrastructure - power plants, water treatment facilities, and transportation hubs - as a primary concern. Near misses at airports and reports of drones flying over private property without consent further fueled the debate, prompting Representative Emily Carter to champion the bill.

"The landscape has changed dramatically in the last few years," Carter explained in a recent interview. "When we first began discussing this, it was about addressing isolated incidents. Now, drones are becoming increasingly sophisticated and accessible, and are being used for a wider range of purposes, both beneficial and potentially harmful. Our goal isn't to stifle innovation, but to ensure that this technology is deployed responsibly and doesn't come at the expense of public safety or privacy."

The current version of the bill significantly expands on existing regulations, which largely relied on federal guidelines established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). While acknowledging the FAA's overarching authority, South Carolina lawmakers believe state-level legislation is crucial to addressing specific local concerns and tailoring regulations to the unique characteristics of the state. Key provisions include:

• Defined No-Fly Zones: The bill establishes clearly defined no-fly zones around critical infrastructure, schools, government buildings, and within a specified radius of airports. These zones will be regularly updated based on security assessments and technological advancements.
• Commercial Use Permitting: Drone operators seeking to use drones for commercial purposes - including photography, surveying, delivery services, and agricultural monitoring - will be required to obtain permits from a newly established state Drone Oversight Board. The permitting process will involve background checks, insurance requirements, and demonstration of proficiency in safe drone operation.
• Privacy Protections: A central element of the revised bill addresses privacy concerns. The legislation prohibits the use of drones equipped with high-resolution cameras for surveillance purposes without consent, and establishes penalties for individuals who use drones to harass, intimidate, or stalk others. A judicial warrant will be required for law enforcement to deploy drones for surveillance in situations where a reasonable expectation of privacy exists.
• Tiered Penalty System: The bill introduces a tiered penalty system for violations, ranging from warnings and fines for minor infractions to potential jail time for repeat offenders or egregious violations, such as intentionally interfering with aircraft or operating a drone in a reckless manner that endangers others.
• Technological Advancements Clause: Recognizing the rapid pace of technological change, the bill includes a clause mandating regular review and updates to regulations to account for new drone technologies and operational capabilities.

The South Carolina Civil Liberties Coalition (SCCLC) remains a vocal advocate for protecting privacy rights. While acknowledging the need for responsible regulation, the SCCLC has pushed for amendments to ensure that the bill doesn't unduly restrict legitimate drone use for journalism, research, or artistic expression. "We are concerned that overly broad restrictions could have a chilling effect on free speech and legitimate data gathering," stated Amelia Hernandez, Executive Director of the SCCLC. "We've worked with lawmakers to refine the language and ensure that any restrictions are narrowly tailored and subject to judicial review."

The Senate Judiciary Committee concluded its review last week, incorporating several amendments aimed at balancing safety and privacy concerns. The bill is now scheduled for a full Senate vote next week, with expectations of a lively debate. Governor Harrison's office has indicated a willingness to sign the bill into law, provided it strikes an appropriate balance between protecting citizens and fostering innovation. Industry analysts predict that, if passed, the South Carolina legislation could serve as a model for other states grappling with the challenges of regulating drone technology.