Drone operators challenge surveyors’ turf in US mapping dispute

When Jones started shooting drone photos and videos for realtors, his clients wanted more: Images with property lines on them. However, after two years of steady business the state of North Carolina issued an order an order that grounded his drone. — AP

RALEIGH, North Carolina: When Michael Jones started a side hustle shooting drone photos and videos for realtors, his clients wanted more: Images with property lines on them, to better understand where their fences should be.

It seemed like a good use of emerging technology that met an obvious consumer demand, and Jones was careful to add a disclaimer: His maps weren’t meant to replace the proper surveys that are often needed for such things as mortgages, title insurance and land use applications.