Sterling Heights has approved a Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program, with the City Council giving the green light during itsTuesday meeting, according to the city's news site. The program will allow drones to respond to emergency scenes around the clock and is expected to be fully operational by Spring 2026.
Sterling Heights is one of the first cities in the region to adopt a Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program. Drones will launch from permanent sites to reduce response times and provide live aerial footage to first responders. Police personnel can deploy the drones by entering an address or coordinates into a secure system, according to the city's official release.
Sterling Heights Police Chief Andrew Satterfield praised the DFR system for improving situational assessment and keeping officers and residents safer. The city’s three drone docking stations will provide first responders with real-time aerial data to support faster and more effective decision-making, Satterfield said.
The DFR program will also support the Fire Department by providing aerial views of fire scenes, crash sites, and other emergencies. Fire Chief Kevin Edmond said, "Having real-time aerial information before our crews arrive will help us better understand conditions and respond more safely and effectively." Mayor Michael Taylor added that the program reflects Sterling Heights’ commitment to innovation and responsive governance.
The DFR program is a collaboration with Axon Enterprise, Inc. and Skydio, which provides the drone technology and maintenance support. A 24-hour public portal allows residents to track drone activity, increasing transparency. The program is funded using federal forfeiture funds, so there is no immediate cost to local taxpayers.
