Drone Program
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) or more commonly, Drones, are becoming a widely used tool in the construction industry, including for building inspections. The Building Safety Division utilizes drones for inspections such as (but not limited to) solar installations, tall warehouses, re-roofing, framing, shear walls, rooftop mechanical units, and finals. The high-definition cameras allow inspectors to see even the small details such as nailing placement.
Building Safety Inspectors who fly drones are licensed as UAS Pilots by the Federal Aviation Administration to fly under FAA Part 107 rules. The City of Wilsonville Building Safety Division conducts all drone operations under FAA Part 107 rules and guidelines, pursuant to ORS 837.362.
Why do we use drones for inspections?
Inspection Tool – Drones are a tool for the inspector to ensure a higher level of construction accuracy for installations that are difficult if not impossible to observe otherwise. This improves the safety of our built environment.
Safety – We value our inspectors’ safety. Drones allow for fewer times that inspectors will have to navigate hazardous conditions with use of ladders, scaffolding, scissor lifts, and fall protection gear.
Time Efficiency – Saves time for all parties including inspectors, builders, business owners, and homeowners. Inspectors are able to maneuver the drone through job sites quicker than they would on foot, especially with larger commercial projects. Less time will be taken from job supervisors who normally would accompany inspectors throughout the job site.
Post Disaster Assessments – Our inspection staff are trained in post-earthquake damage assessments. The use of drones to conduct rapid damage assessments will improve the City’s disaster response and recovery time.
What about privacy?
Inspectors ascribe to a professional code of ethics. They are very mindful and respectful of privacy and potential perception issues. Inspectors rarely take photos or video during flights as it is not necessary to verify the installation. The drone has features that serve as a set of eyes just as if the inspector was in the immediate vicinity. On rare occasions, flights may be recorded where specifically authorized by the Building Official for a business case use.
Below are links to a policy and presentation to Wilsonville City Council on the implementation of a building inspection program that incorporates drones as a tool for the inspector:
