Police Drones: A Guide to How Law Enforcement Uses Drones in Its Work
BY Zacc Dukowitz
30 May 2024A police drone is any UAV used by law enforcement in its work.
(A UAV is just another term for a drone—it stands for Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle.)
Fun fact—just a few years back the term police drone didn’t really exist.
Here’s a graph from Google Trends showing the rise of the term in searches online, starting with its first appearance in 2011.
These days, police drones—also known as cop drones or law enforcement drones—have become indispensable tools in modern policing.
As drone technology has become more prevalent, it’s also become more specialized. And with that specialization we’ve seen drones and supporting software developed specifically for the needs of several types of jobs, including law enforcement.
In this article we’ll take a deep dive into law enforcement drones, covering what a police drone is, the history of drones in law enforcement, the top police drones on the market, the different ways police use drones, and more.
Here’s a menu in case you want to jump around:
- What Is a Police Drone?
- A Brief History of Drones in Law Enforcement
- What Kinds of Drones Do Police Use? The Top Police Drones on the Market
- What Are Police Drones Used For? The Top 16 Applications for Drones in Law Enforcement
- Cop Drones: Case Studies and Real-World Examples
- The Rise of Drone as First Responder Programs
What Is a Police Drone?
There are a few drones made specifically for use by the police, like BRINC’s LEMUR 2.
The Lemur 2 | Credit: BRINC
But a drone doesn’t have to be made just for law enforcement to qualify as a police drone. Many high-quality commercial drones can be used effectively by trained police officers.
And there are so many uses for cop drones that they can vary widely in size and capability, ranging from small quadcopters to larger, more sophisticated hexacopters with extended flight times and broader payload capacities.
But there are some characteristics most police drones share:
- Advanced sensors/cameras for high-quality visual, thermal, and other data collection
- Communication systems that enable real-time data collection and transmission
- Rugged design made for operations in harsh environments
We’ll cover all the uses for drones in policing in more detail below.
But as an overview, drones provide law enforcement with a bird’s-eye view of unfolding situations in real time, allowing officers to gather critical information without putting themselves in harm’s way.
The primary functions of drones in policing include:
- Automatic response to 911 calls (in Drone as First Responder programs)
- Surveillance and reconnaissance
- Search and rescue
- Traffic monitoring
- Crowd control
Want to Start a Drone Program in Your Police Department?
Here are some resources to help you get started:
- Applying for a Public COA vs. Part 107 Certification for Police and Fire Departments
- A Drone Pilot’s Guide to Tactical BVLOS (TBVLOS) Waivers for Public Safety Agencies
- Drone as a First Responder: A Guide to DFR Programs and First Responder Drones
- Master List of Drone Laws (Organized by State)
- Drone License: A Step-by-Step Guide to FAA Part 107 Certification for U.S. Commercial Drone Pilots
This article is part of a series on drones in public safety. Here are the other articles in the series:
- What Is a Public Safety Drone?
- Firefighting Drones: A Guide to How Fire Departments Uses Drones in Their Work
- Search and Rescue Drones: A Guide to How SAR Teams Use Drones in Their Work
- Drone as a First Responder: A Guide to DFR Programs and First Responder Drones
A Brief History of Drones in Law Enforcement
The use of drones in law enforcement began way back in the early 2000s.
But it wasn’t until the mid-2010s that drone technology became widely accessible and affordable for police departments. Initially, military-grade drones were the primary models available, but advancements in commercial drone technology have since led to a broader range of options for public safety agencies (PSAs).
One of the first instances of a law enforcement agency employing drones was in 2013, when the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office in Colorado began using them in search and rescue missions and crime scene investigations.
Credit: Mesa County Sheriff’s Office
The Mesa Sheriff’s early adoption led the way for the use of drones by law enforcement elsewhere, showcasing the value drones could provide public safety operations by providing aerial perspectives that were otherwise difficult or even impossible to obtain.
By the end of 2016—just three years after Mesa’s foray into the use of drones for public safety work—about 350 public safety agencies had acquired drones, including 167 police departments. These early drone programs focused primarily on traffic accident reconstruction, surveillance, and monitoring large events.
Just two years later, in 2018, the number of police departments using drones had more than doubled.
Credit: Bard Center for the Study of the Drone
This surge in adoption was driven by the decreasing costs of drones and the increasing recognition of their utility in various operational contexts for police work.
It’s worth noting that, among all the types of public safety agencies, police are the ones using drones the most, with fire departments a distant second.
Data from a Bard Center for the Study of the Drone study
Since then, more and more police departments have started drone programs. As of 2022, over 1,000 police departments in the United States had adopted drone technology.
And that trend shows no signs of slowing.
According to the FAA, the number of drones used by public safety agencies will be over 30,000 by 2025, representing a growth of 300% from the 10,000 in use by PSAs in 2020.
Milestones in the Evolution of Police Use of Drones
Here’s a quick rundown of the evolution of drones in policing:
- Early 2000s. Initial use of military-grade drones in law enforcement.
- 2013. Mesa County Sheriff’s Office in Colorado becomes one of the first U.S. law enforcement agencies to use drones for search and rescue and crime scene investigations.
- 2016. Approximately 170 police departments in the U.S. have acquired drones, focusing on traffic accident reconstruction, surveillance, and monitoring large events.
- 2018. The number of police departments using drones more than doubles, with over 600 agencies actively employing drone technology.
- 2018. Chula Vista Police Department in California launches the first ever Drone as First Responder (DFR) program.
- 2022. Over 1,000 police departments in the United States have integrated drones into their operations.
- Present day. Police drones and Drone as First Responders programs become a prominent trend in law enforcement, showcasing the evolving capabilities and widespread acceptance of UAV technology in public safety.
What Kinds of Drones Do Police Use? The Top 5 Police Drones on the Market
Law enforcement agencies use a variety of drones tailored to meet the specific needs of their operations.
Here are the top five police drones on the market, including information on their primary use cases, price range, supply chain details, and key features.
1. BRINC LEMUR 2
- Price range. $$
- Top police use cases. Indoor tactical operations, hostage situations, barricaded suspects.
- Supply chain information. Made in the USA, NDAA-compliant.
Top Features
- Special abilities. Can break glass, two-way communication, drop payloads.
- Flight time. 31 minutes.
- Durability. Can self-right after crashes, has rugged build for indoor use.
- Sensor suite. Night vision camera, thermal camera, and two-way audio.
2. Skydio X2
- Top police use cases. Surveillance, mapping, inspection.
- Price range. $$
- Supply chain information. Made in the USA, NDAA-compliant, on Blue UAS list.
Top Features
- Autonomy. Advanced AI for obstacle avoidance and autonomous navigation.
- Flight time. 35 minutes.
- Camera system. 4K60P HDR color camera, FLIR Boson 320 x 256 thermal camera.
- Durability. Rugged design, IP53 rating.
3. DJI Matrice 350 RTK
- Price range. $$$
- Top police use cases. Surveillance, search and rescue, and tactical operations
- Supply chain information. Made in China by DJI, so not NDAA-compliant.
Top Features
- Flight time. 55 minutes.
- Transmission range. 9.3 miles (15 km).
- Payload capacity: Up to 6 pounds (2.7 kg), with the ability to carry multiple payloads simultaneously.
- Durability. IP55 rating, operates in harsh weather conditions, wind resistance up to 39 feet/s (12 m/s).
- Advanced payload options. Compatible with DJI Zenmuse H20T (thermal camera), DJI Zenmuse H20N (night vision camera), searchlight, and loudspeaker.
4. Parrot ANAFI USA
- Top police use cases. Surveillance, inspection, search and rescue.
- Price range. $$
- Supply chain information. Made in France and the USA, NDAA-compliant.
Top Features
- Flight time. 32 minutes.
- Camera system. Dual 21 MP cameras with 32x zoom, FLIR Boson 320 x 256 IR camera.
- Portability. Lightweight and foldable, comes with a waterproof transport case.
- Durability. IP53 rating for dust and water resistance.
5. DJI Mavic 3 Thermal
- Top police use cases. Search and rescue, surveillance, thermal imaging for night ops.
- Price range. $$
- Supply chain information. Made in China by DJI, so not NDAA-compliant.
Top Features
- Flight time. 45 minutes.
- Camera system. 48 MP visual camera, 640 x 512 px thermal camera, 56x zoom.
- Portability. Compact and easily deployable.
- Durability. IP54 rating for weather resistance.
8 Things to Look for in a Cop Drone
Of course, the list above isn’t exhaustive.
There are several other drones out there that can be used by law enforcement—here are some common characteristics to look for when vetting a drone for police work.
1. High-Resolution Cameras
High-resolution cameras are a standard feature on most police drones, providing detailed imagery for surveillance, crime scene documentation, and search and rescue operations. Cameras on drones like the DJI Matrice 350 RTK and Parrot ANAFI USA offer resolutions up to 48 MP, enabling officers to capture clear and precise images from the air.
2. Thermal Imaging
Thermal imaging is crucial for operations in low-visibility conditions, such as nighttime or in smoke and fog. Drones like the DJI Mavic 3 Thermal and Skydio X2 are equipped with thermal sensors that detect heat signatures, allowing officers to locate suspects, missing persons, or hazardous materials that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
3. Real-Time Video Transmission
Real-time video transmission provides instant situational awareness to officers on the ground. Drones equipped with this capability, such as the BRINC LEMUR 2, can stream live footage to command centers, enabling real-time decision-making and coordination during emergencies and tactical operations.
4. AI and Autonomous Flight
Artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous flight capabilities are becoming increasingly common in police drones. These technologies enable drones to navigate complex environments, avoid obstacles, and conduct missions with minimal human intervention. Skydio is known for its autonomy—its Skydio X2 has advanced AI for obstacle avoidance and autonomous flight, making it ideal for dynamic and challenging scenarios.
5. Extended Flight Times and Ranges
Extended flight times and transmission ranges are critical for covering large areas and prolonged operations. Drones like the DJI Matrice 350 RTK offer flight times up to 55 minutes and transmission ranges up to 9.3 miles, allowing for extensive surveillance, suspect pursuit, and monitoring without frequent battery changes.
6. Multi-Sensor Payloads
Police drones often carry multiple sensors to enhance their versatility. For example, the DJI Matrice 350 RTK can be equipped with various payloads, including high-resolution cameras, thermal sensors, and night vision cameras. This multi-sensor capability allows a single drone to perform multiple functions, from surveillance to thermal imaging, in a single flight.
7. Loudspeakers and Communication Systems
Drones like the Parrot ANAFI USA and BRINC LEMUR 2 come with loudspeakers and two-way communication systems, allowing police officers to broadcast messages or communicate directly with individuals on the ground. This feature is particularly useful for crowd control, hostage negotiations, and disaster response.
8. Rugged and Weather-Resistant Designs
Police drones are designed to withstand harsh environments and adverse weather conditions. Models like the DJI Matrice 350 RTK and Parrot ANAFI USA feature rugged, weather-resistant designs with high IP ratings, ensuring reliable performance in rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.
What Are Police Drones Used For? The Top 16 Applications for Drones in Law Enforcement
Now that we’ve gone over the top police drones on the market it’s time to get concrete, and look at specific use cases for drones in policing.
Here are the 16 most common ways that police officers are using drones in the field.
Credit: DJI
1. Surveillance and Reconnaissance
Drones provide real-time aerial views of large areas, helping officers monitor public events, track suspects, and gather intelligence without being detected.
2. Search and Rescue
Equipped with thermal imaging and high-resolution cameras, drones help locate missing persons, including children and vulnerable adults, in challenging terrains and adverse weather conditions.
3. Traffic Accident Reconstruction
Drones capture detailed aerial images of accident scenes, allowing investigators to reconstruct incidents accurately and efficiently, minimizing road closures and disruptions.
4. Crime Scene Investigation
Aerial imagery from drones helps document crime scenes comprehensively, preserving evidence and providing detailed perspectives that ground-based photos might miss.
5. Crowd Monitoring
During large public events or protests, drones monitor crowd movements, identify potential hazards, and assist in crowd control efforts, ensuring public safety.
6. Tactical Operations
In SWAT operations or hostage situations, SWAT drones—another term for a police drone—provide crucial intelligence on suspect locations and movements, enabling safer and more strategic decision-making.
7. Drug and Smuggling Interdiction
Drones patrol borders and coastal areas, identifying and tracking suspicious vessels or individuals involved in drug trafficking or smuggling activities.
8. Perimeter Security
Drones enhance perimeter security around critical infrastructure, prisons, and other high-security areas by providing continuous aerial surveillance and detecting intrusions.
9. Evidence Gathering
High-resolution cameras on drones capture detailed evidence in various investigations, including illegal dumping, wildlife crimes, and property damage.
10. Monitoring Illegal Activities
Drones help detect and monitor illegal activities such as poaching, illegal logging, and unauthorized land use, providing valuable evidence for prosecutions.
11. Disaster Response and Damage Assessment
After natural disasters, drones assess damage, identify hazards, and help coordinate response efforts, ensuring efficient use of resources and faster recovery.
12. Fugitive Apprehension
Drones assist in tracking and apprehending fugitives by providing aerial views of search areas, reducing the risk to officers and increasing the chances of a successful capture.
13. Inspection of Dangerous Areas
In hazardous environments like chemical spills or collapsed buildings, drones gather critical information without putting officers at risk, ensuring their safety while obtaining necessary data.
14. Traffic Monitoring
Drones monitor traffic flow, identify congestion points, and assist in managing traffic during peak hours or major events, improving overall traffic management.
15. Border Patrol and Immigration Control
Drones provide surveillance along borders, detecting illegal crossings and assisting border patrol agents in apprehending individuals attempting to enter the country unlawfully.
16. Public Information and Communication
Equipped with loudspeakers, drones disseminate important information to the public during emergencies, evacuations, or large gatherings, enhancing communication and public safety.
Law Enforcement Drones: Case Studies and Real-World Examples
Now that we’ve covered an array of use cases, let’s dive deeper, and look at some real-world examples of how police departments and other law enforcement agencies are actually using drones in their work.
Chula Vista Police Department—Chula Vista, CA
Credit: CVPD
The Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) has been at the forefront of integrating drones into law enforcement work for years.
Since launching the first Drone as First Responder (DFR) program in 2018, CVPD has seen significant improvements in response times and situational awareness. CVPD deploys drones to the scene of an incident immediately after a 911 call, providing real-time video feed to officers en route. This capability has helped in various scenarios, including locating suspects, monitoring large events, assessing crime scenes, and significantly reducing the number of calls officers respond to.
Learn more about the CVPD’s drone program:
New York Police Department—New York City, NY
Credit: NYPD
The NYPD’s drones provide a live feed to command centers, helping officers monitor crowd movements, identify potential hazards, and respond quickly to incidents. In 2024, the NYPD launched its own DFR program, which deploys drones to the scene of gunshots as soon as they’re detected by a system called ShotSpotter.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) has used drones for:
- Crowd monitoring and management during major public events, such as the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square.
- Catching teens “subway surfing” (riding on the top of subway cars).
- Emergency broadcast systems (EBS) to notify residents of impending weather events.
Learn more about the NYPD’s drone program:
- Visit the NYPD’s drone permit application webpage.
- See the NYPD’s quarterly reports on its drone use.
Los Angeles Police Department—Los Angeles, CA
Credit: LAPD
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has integrated drones into its operations for tactical missions, including SWAT operations and hostage situations.
In one notable case, a drone equipped with thermal imaging was used to locate a suspect hiding in a dark, enclosed area. The drone’s live feed allows officers to approach and apprehend the suspect without putting themselves at unnecessary risk.
Learn more about the LAPD’s drone program:
Daytona Beach Police Department—Daytona, FL
Credit: DBPD
The Daytona Beach Police Department (DBPD) employs drones for traffic accident reconstruction and investigation, among other use cases.
A few years back, officers used drones after a major traffic collision to capture detailed aerial imagery of the scene, which was then used to create accurate 3D models to investigate the cause of the crash. This process significantly reduced the time required for on-site investigation, minimizing traffic disruptions and allowing the road to reopen more quickly.
Learn more about the DBPD’s drone program:
Texas Department of Public Safety
Credit: TDPS
The Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) has frequently used drones for disaster response and recovery efforts.
After Hurricane Harvey, drones were deployed to assess damage, locate stranded individuals, and survey flood-affected areas. The aerial imagery provided by drones helped in coordinating rescue operations and allocating resources effectively, contributing to a more efficient response effort.
Learn more about the TDPS’s drone program:
The Rise of Drone as First Responder Programs
A Drone as First Responder (DFR) program refers to the automatic deployment of drones to the scene of an incident immediately upon receiving a 911 call, providing real-time situational awareness to first responders as they travel to the scene.
Despite regulatory hurdles making them hard to launch, DFR programs have been slowly growing throughout police departments in the U.S.
These programs have been particularly effective in urban areas, where traffic congestion and complex environments can delay traditional response times.
By deploying drones to incident scenes, police departments can reduce the need for multiple ground units and allocate resources more strategically. Additionally, the ability to capture aerial imagery and live video feeds helps departments improve the overall quality of incident documentation and evidence collection.
The First DFR Program and FAA Approval
The Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) in California pioneered the first Drone as First Responder (DFR) program in the United States in 2018.
This innovative program was developed as part of the FAA’s UAS Integration Pilot Program (IPP), which aimed to test and evaluate the integration of drones into national airspace.
Credit: CVPD
As part of the IPP, CVPD received special FAA approval to fly drones BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight), which is otherwise prohibited under the Part 107 rules.
The approval to operate BVLOS was a game-changer, allowing CVPD to deploy drones over a wider area without requiring a visual observer to maintain line of sight with the drone. This capability significantly expanded the operational range of its drones, enhancing their effectiveness in responding to emergencies and providing situational awareness.
Evolution and Expansion of DFR Programs
Since the launch of the first DFR program, the concept has rapidly gained traction across the United States.
Here is a brief timeline of the evolution of DFR programs:
- 2018. Chula Vista Police Department launches the first DFR program, receiving FAA approval to operate BVLOS under the UAS IPP.
- 2019. Several other police departments, inspired by CVPD’s success, begin exploring the implementation of DFR programs.
- 2020. The FAA expands its support for DFR programs by granting additional BVLOS waivers to other law enforcement agencies.
- 2021. The number of police drone programs continues to grow, with notable implementations in cities such as Los Angeles, New York, and Dallas.
- 2022. The DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety UAS Survey reports a significant increase in the adoption of DFR programs, with over 30 police departments actively using drones as first responders.
- 2023. The FAA introduces new guidelines and streamlined processes for law enforcement agencies to obtain BVLOS waivers, further facilitating the expansion of DFR programs.
- 2024. In 2024 there are over 50 active DFR programs in the United States, with more departments planning to launch similar initiatives in the near future.
Want to learn more about how public safety agencies are using drones? Check out our in-depth guide, What Is a Public Safety Drone?
