Drone as a First Responder (DFR)

DFR drones are launched only in response to an existing call for service. They are not used for general patrol or proactive surveillance. RTCC personnel monitor the live video feed and, when appropriate, share it with officers responding to the incident.

While the drone is traveling to and from an incident, the camera is intentionally pointed forward rather than downward, so it is not capturing video of residential property or other unintended locations along its flight path. Once the drone arrives at the incident, the camera is used only to support that specific call for service.

Scottsdale PD intentionally implemented the DFR program gradually, beginning with a single deployment site. During the first full year of operation, every flight included a visual observer positioned on the rooftop where the drone was housed to provide an additional layer of safety while the program was evaluated.

RTCC personnel and other trained police pilots are authorized to operate DFR drones. Every drone pilot holds an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, the federal certification required to operate small, unmanned aircraft on behalf of a public agency.

DFR drones and docks are inspected and maintained once per week by each pilot to ensure they remain safe, reliable, and ready for operational use.