Bill > SB1072

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS or drones) in Oklahoma, focusing on protecting private property and preventing unauthorized surveillance. The legislation defines key terms such as "homestead" (principal residence with up to 400 feet of surrounding land outside city limits), "secure farmstead area" (property including animal feeding operations), and "surveillance device" (equipment capable of recording identifiable images, sounds, or data). The bill creates two primary offenses: "intrusion" (flying a drone over private property without permission) and "surveillance" (using a drone with recording capabilities over private property without consent), both of which carry escalating criminal penalties. First-time offenders could face up to 30 days in jail and a $500-$1,000 fine for intrusion, while surveillance offenses carry more severe penalties of up to one year in jail and $1,000-$2,500 in fines, with subsequent convictions facing even higher punishments. The law allows property owners to petition for court injunctions against harassing drone usage and provides provisions for handling any recorded images or data. The bill includes exemptions for certain entities like government agencies, public utilities, and commercial/agricultural users operating within Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The law is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and grants the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry authority to develop implementation rules.