Drone Flights
The unauthorized operation of an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), including any type of drone, is not permitted on any Pepperdine University campus or property. This is due to public safety, privacy concerns, and Federal Aviation Administration regulations. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including possible civil and/or criminal action.
Exceptions to this policy may be made for an official institutional need, such as research or teaching, design and construction, athletics, student life, marketing, or public safety. To obtain an exception to this policy, the following information must be submitted to Public Safety via the Drone Flight Request Form at least 14 days prior to planned flight:
Pilot Information
- Name
- Date of birth
- Pilot certification
- Total UAS flight hours; and
- Total UAS model flight hours
Drone Information
- Serial number
- Make
- Model
- Manufacture year
- UAS insured value
- Estimated annual flight hours
- FAA drone registration
Insurance Approval from Insurance and Risk
The Office of Insurance and Risk must approve of a drone’s proof of insurance before it can appropriately fly on Pepperdine’s Malibu campus.
For third parties that wish to fly a drone on campus, Pepperdine requires a contract
and proof of insurance approved by Insurance and Risk be on file before contacting
Public Safety for flight approval. For questions or to register a drone or pilot
contact Kellen Escoe.
Flight Approval Plan for all Drones
The Department of Public Safety must be notified of any proposed drone flight at least 7 days in advance to approve the timing and flight plan. Because Pepperdine’s airspace is regularly used by local first responders, all drones may need to be grounded at a moment’s notice to support emergency response.
For questions on scheduling a drone flight please contact Jason Jensen and Angelique Chen.