UPDATE: One-time use of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) on Capitol Campus approved and scheduled for July 17

The Department of Enterprise Services has authorized use of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) on the Capitol Campus to make detailed observations of hard to reach areas of the historic O’Brien Building and Temple of Justice that are difficult to safely access in person. In addition to being safer than sending people up on ladders or scaffolding, using a drone will be less labor intensive and thus will result in cost savings.

This investigation is part of a Capitol Campus exterior cleaning and repair project. A previous communication incorrectly indicated that the drone would be capturing images of the Legislative Building.

The work is weather dependent and is scheduled to be performed Friday, July 17, beginning at 9 a.m.

Washington Administrative Code 200-250 mostly prohibits launching, landing, or operating UAS/drones on the Capitol Campus. However, the rules do allow use of drones for activities directly related to the care of the campus with written approval of the Department of Enterprise Services Director.

Contractor Commercial Industrial Roofing, Inc., will use the drone to capture images of hard to reach areas of the buildings, like high walls, ledges and balconies. Safety precautions will be taken throughout the operation. The contractor has met all Federal Aviation Administration requirements.