On Oct. 21, the Woodland Park Borough Council and Mayor Tracy Kallert voted unanimously to introduce an ordinance that would prohibit commercial drone‑delivery operators from using any municipal property for takeoffs, landings, or package drop‑offs without explicit authorization. The measure targets ground‑level activities—such as launch pads, loading areas, parking lots, rooftops, and storage facilities—rather than the airspace itself, allowing drones to continue delivering to private homes in compliance with existing federal and state laws.
According to Hoodline, the ordinance requires any proposed drone‑delivery hub to obtain the borough’s zoning approvals, permits, and land‑use authorizations before operating. Existing commercial establishments would not automatically qualify as permitted drone hubs; each facility would need a specific permit under the new rules. Public property—including parks, playgrounds, sidewalks, streets, and borough‑owned buildings—would be off‑limits for drone operations unless a permit is granted. Exceptions are carved out for law‑enforcement, first‑responders, emergency management, medical emergencies, authorized government activities, and other legally protected uses.
Mayor Kallert framed the ordinance as a proactive step, saying the town wants residents to enjoy their homes, backyards, and parks without “unnecessary noise or intrusion.” She emphasized that the policy reflects thoughtful planning and a commitment to community interests. Mike Sica, chair of the Ordinances Committee, echoed the concern for public safety, noise, privacy, and the impact of drone activity in densely developed residential and commercial areas.
Violations would be treated as separate offenses under the borough’s existing general penalties. Each unauthorized takeoff, landing, or package drop‑off could count as an individual violation, and each day a prohibited facility operates would be considered a separate offense. Enforcement could be carried out by the Woodland Park Police Department, the zoning officer, the construction official, or the code‑enforcement officer.
The ordinance still requires a public hearing and final council approval before it can take effect. While no specific hearing date was provided in the report, officials indicated that the council will schedule the hearing later this year, giving residents an opportunity to comment before a final vote.
What’s next: The borough will announce a public hearing date in the coming weeks. After the hearing, the council is expected to vote on the ordinance, which, if approved, will establish the permitting process for any commercial drone‑delivery operations on municipal land.
Sources: hoodline.com
