Drone Policy:

Elk Grove Village Police Department operates small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), also known as drones, with 15 certified Drone Operators within the Department.

In accordance with the Illinois Drones as First Responders Act (PA 103-0101) and the Illinois Freedom from Drone Surveillance Act (725 ILCS 167/15), the department is required to post its drone policy for the public. The policy can be viewed here.

A drone is an aerial device with an onboard computer that is operated remotely, generally by a pilot on the ground using a handheld controller. Small drones are battery-operated, weigh less than 55 pounds, have several rotors like a helicopter, and are equipped with video cameras, thermal imaging, speakers, and lights. These drones are cost-efficient and will be used to enhance our capabilities to save time, property, and lives.  

About the Drone Program:

The drones will be used for multiple functions. Some of the most predominate functions of the drone will be for:

• Crime and accident scene reconstruction
• Forensic investigations
• De-escalation
• Emergency and natural disaster response
• Large event over-watch
• Search and rescue
• Disaster assessment/assessment of scenes
• Tactical operations support
• Traffic pattern review 

The drone will not be used for random surveillance. It will only be used for special calls for service. Drones cannot be weaponized and do not have facial recognition software. They will also not be used for protected First Amendment assemblies and will never be used for private business. 

The implementation of the drone program is a new and exciting opportunity that will continue to highlight Elk Grove Village as the Exceptional Community.  

For questions about the Drone Program, please contact:

Commander Callaghan
wcallaghan@elkgrove.org
847-357-4190