WSU Policy
WSU’s policy on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations (UPPM 50.37) applies to all uses of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), which are commonly referred to as drones. For more information, contact the WSU Police Department at 509-335-8548 or police@wsu.edu.
Federal UAS Acquisition Policy
Federal law (41 USC 3901 note prec.) and related regulations (FAR 52.240-1) prohibit the use of federal funds for the delivery, purchase, and operation of drone systems that are manufactured or assembled by certain foreign entities, including popular brands like DJI (SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd.). Prohibited entities—American Security Drone Act-Covered Foreign Entities—are currently defined as any firm on the International Trade Administration’s Consolidated Screening List.
Funding agencies may provide further guidance or additional requirements related to drone systems on their sponsored projects.
What does this mean?
Federal funds may not be used to acquire or operate any element of drones systems made by a covered entity—including the drone itself, control systems, peripheral devices like cameras or other sensors, and software. This prohibition includes the utilization of third-party drone services under federally funded projects.
Required Actions:
- Cease Operations: PIs should review current and planned drone use as part of federally funded activities, including research. The use of drone systems manufactured or assembled by a covered entity on federally funded projects must cease immediately. It is recommended that covered systems be clearly labeled and stored separately to avoid inadvertent use on a federally funded project.
- Stop Procurement: New drones purchased with federal funds or for use on federally funded projects must be made by non-covered entities. Future purchases should be reviewed for compliance.
Manufacturers on the Blue UAS Cleared List are cleared for use by the Department of Defense and are compliant with current prohibitions. Other manufacturers may be allowable depending on agency guidelines.
Impacted drone systems may be used for university business that is not supported by federal funds, however caution is urged to avoid inadvertent prohibited use.
If you are unsure whether a given UAS is subject to this prohibition, please email the Office of Research Support and Operations team.