SOAK Drone Policy

(Drones and other small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS, UAV or Drone)

All UAV operators must receive written permission from SOAK Producers before operating any remote aircraft.

All UAV Operators must be registered with the FAA. Each UAV must be clearly labeled on the outside of the drone with the registration number, pilot’s name and phone number. Note: The cost of registration is $5 and lasts 3 years.

All Operators must comply with generally accepted safety rules, including but not limited to:
● Follow community-based safety guidelines, as developed by organizations such as the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA).
● Fly no higher than 400 feet above ground level and remain below any surrounding obstacles when possible.
● Keep your sUAS in eyesight at all times, and use an observer to assist if needed.
● Remain well clear of and do not interfere with manned aircraft operations, and you must see and avoid other aircraft and obstacles at all times.
● Do not intentionally fly over unprotected persons or moving vehicles, and remain at least 25 feet away from individuals and vulnerable property.
● Do not fly in adverse weather conditions such as in high winds or reduced visibility.
● Do not fly under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
● Ensure the operating environment is safe and that the operator is competent and proficient in the operation of the sUAS.

  1. All operators must carry liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 for any injuries or damage caused by the UAV. Satisfactory coverage can be obtained by joining the Academy of Model Aeronautics. Alternatively, hourly drone insurance can be purchased using Apps like Verifly or if you have separate annual drone coverage. If you are flying a UAV be prepared to show you have insurance if asked by a Ranger.

  2. All operators must comply with SOAK’s policies on photography and videography. Remember that some people are particularly sensitive to privacy concerns in regards to UAVs, and all efforts should be taken to avoid taking photos or videos in which individuals could be personally identified without first obtaining permission.

  3. All operators must comply with requests from Rangers or SOAK Staff Members to avoid particular areas and cease operation immediately when requested.

  4. All operators must attend a mandatory safety meeting (time to be announced) at Central Services prior to operating their UAV or notify rangers of your activity. This will also be an opportunity to meet with other pilots and coordinate with each other.

  5. Have a partner monitor conditions under or around the UAV, and have them try to keep the area under the UAV clear of people and keep an eye out for unsafe conditions.

  6. If you fly your drone in a hazardous, obnoxious, or obtrusive manner, you may be asked to terminate your flight and have your privileges revoked.

  7. Avoid flying near events which have a sense of solemnity or quiet. Coordinate with other operators to minimize the number of UAVs in the air at any given time.

    To apply contact: producers@soakpdx.com

    Name:____________________
    Playa Name:_______________
    Address:__________________
    Phone:___________________
    FAA Registration #:__________
    Make and Model of UAV:______
    I certify that I have liability insurance with a minimum of [$1,000,000] property damage and
    personal injury coverage during flight.
    Insurance Company Name or AMA Membership ID:
    Insurance Policy #:     ___
    I agree to hold harmless Precipitation Northwest for any injuries or property damage caused by me in operating my UAV at the event. I agree to abide by the rules set forth herein, and agree not to allow anyone to operate the UAV who has not executed an agreement with Precipitation Northwest to do so. SOAK appreciates the diversity of the community and intends to facilitate all types of participation from people with all levels of ability. Tell us what accommodations you need in order to fully enjoy the event. This could include special camping permissions, service dogs, or other types of accommodations. We want everybody to be able to come to SOAK and have a great time!

The nature of SOAK may prevent us from providing accommodations that are available at other events. SOAK takes place on a ranch located in a hilly area with no paved roads, no permanent restrooms, and no other amenities. Participants are required to provide their own food, water, shelter, and all other survival necessities. Within these constraints, SOAK’s organizers will always look for creative solutions that, when appropriate, allow for participation from all community members.

Accordingly, SOAK will fulfill requests for reasonable accommodations to the extent required by law, and will attempt to exceed legal requirements when reasonable, appropriate, and possible. Neither these questions nor your answers to them give SOAK a legal responsibility to provide any particular accommodation. Accommodations will be granted on a case-by-case basis.