Overview
Appalachian State University encourages the use of innovative forms of technology to achieve the University’s goals of effective education, research, communication and operations. For the safety and privacy of our students, faculty, staff and visitors, App State prohibits the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) - also known as drones - for recreational purposes by anyone, and prohibits the use of drones by third-parties without affiliation with and consent from the University.
Faculty, staff, students and third-party vendors who wish to operate UAS over campus for reasons of education, research, communication and operations can follow the process below to apply for approval.
Things to do before you apply to fly on campus
- Obtain and keep current, a Remote Pilot Part 107 Certificate from the FAA.
- Register UAS with FAA at faadronezone-access.faa.gov
- Review North Carolina State Laws and Regulations for UAS.
How to apply to fly on campus
- Read App State's Unmanned Aircraft Systems Policy. Approved flights will be restricted to uses that meet the University’s academic mission and/or serve the University’s business needs or duties, as determined by University officials.
Fill out the required UAS Approval Form (updated Oct. 2025), and submit it as an attachment to uas@appstate.edu. Please make sure to include a copy of your FAA license and fill out the application completely to avoid any processing delays. Applications must be submitted to uas@appstate.edu to avoid processing delays.
Your application will be reviewed by members of the UAS Committee, and you will be notified of approval or if additional information is needed for processing.
Your application must include at least one proposed date for your flight. A secondary date for adverse weather is recommended.
- Remember to allow at least ten (10) days for the approval process.
General rules to follow
- Follow all State and Federal rules and regulations.
- Follow Appalachian State University's UAS policy.