R. H. Estates : Ban on Model Aircraft

The City Council this week ordered City Atty. Richard Terzian to draft an ordinance prohibiting the flight of motorized model aircraft in the city.

The ordinance will apply to both tethered and remote-control airplanes and helicopters but will exclude remote-control gliders because most terrain in Rolling Hills Estates is not conducive to their use. Gliders, which are silent, require the thermal drafts found at cliffs and beaches for flight, said Councilman Warren Schwarzmann.

Community Services Director Sam Wise told the council he had received many complaints of noise in the vicinity of High Ridge Park at Whitley Collins Drive and Highridge Road. He said the miniature aircraft are not only noisy but can be dangerous, particularly to the equestrian community. Wise said the use of such aircraft by hobbyists was “inconsistent” with Rolling Hills Estates’ rural residential environment.