Fairview Park Rules and Flying Permit
Requirements to Fly at Fairview Park
Any one is allowed to fly a model aircraft at Fairview Park, but it is necessary to comply with three requirements. They are:
1. Obtain a Costa Mesa City permit.
2. Comply with the Academy of Model Aeronautics "National Model Aircraft Safety Code".
3. Comply with the HSS Flying Field Rules
Where there is conflict between the National Safety Code and the Flying Field Rules, the Flying Field Rules shall prevail.
Costa Mesa City Permit
To obtain this permit you must go to the Costa Mesa City Hall (Parks Department) at 77 Fair Dr. Bring some form of personal identification i.e. your driver's license, and your AMA card or proof of $500,000 liability insurance. Read and sign the agreement and pay a nominal fee of $20.00. These permits are available year round, but cover from January through December. All persons who have a permit and are willing to agree to follow the rules, guidelines, etc. associated with this ordinance are more than welcome to come out and fly at Fairview Park. If you wish to read the documents please click HERE, or visit the City's web site HERE and look under agendas, city council, agendas, 2007-01-16, old business , #2.
2009 Official Academy of Model Aeronautics National Model Aircraft Safety Code
Academy of Model Aeronautics - www.modelaircraft.org
GENERAL
1. A model aircraft shall be defined as a non-human-carrying device capable of sustained flight in the atmosphere. It shall not exceed limitations
established in this code and is intended to be used exclusively for recreational or competition activity.
2. The maximum takeoff weight of a model aircraft, including fuel, is 55 pounds, except for those flown under the AMA Experimental Aircraft Rules.
3. I will abide by this Safety Code and all rules established for the flying site I use. I will not willfully fly my model aircraft in a reckless and/or
dangerous manner.
4. I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows, or model demonstrations until it has been proven airworthy.
5. I will not fly my model aircraft higher than approximately 400 feet above ground level, when within three (3) miles of an airport without notifying
the airport operator. I will yield the right-of-way and avoid flying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft, utilizing a spotter when appropriate.
6. I will not fly my model aircraft unless it is identified with my name and address, or AMA number, inside or affixed to the outside of the model
aircraft. This does not apply to model aircraft flown indoors.
7. I will not operate model aircraft with metal-blade propellers or with gaseous boosts (other than air), nor will I operate model aircraft with fuels
containing tetranitromethane or hydrazine.
8. I will not operate model aircraft carrying pyrotechnic devices which explode or burn, or any device, which propels a projectile of any kind.
Exceptions include Free Flight fuses or devices that burn producing smoke and are securely attached to the model aircraft during flight. Rocket
motors up to a G-series size may be used, provided they remain firmly attached to the model aircraft during flight. Model rockets may be flown in
accordance with the National Model Rocketry Safety Code; however, they may not be launched from model aircraft. Officially designated AMAAir
Show Teams (AST) are authorized to use devices and practices as defined within the Air Show Advisory Committee Document.
9. I will not operate my model aircraft while under the influence of alcohol or within eight (8) hours of having consumed alcohol.
10. I will not operate my model aircraft while using any drug which could adversely affect my ability to safely control my model aircraft.
11. Children under six (6) years old are only allowed on a flightline or in a flight area as a pilot or while under flight instruction.
12. When and where required by rule, helmets must be properly worn and fastened. They must be OSHA, DOT, ANSI, SNELL or NOCSAE
approved or comply with comparable standards.
RADIO CONTROL
1. All model flying shall be conducted in a manner to avoid overflight of unprotected people.
2. I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground-range check before the first flight of a new or repaired model aircraft.
3. I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of spectators until I become a proficient flier, unless I am assisted by an experienced pilot.
4. At all flying sites a safety line or lines must be established, in front of which all flying takes place. Only personnel associated with flying the model
aircraft are allowed at or in front of the safety line. In the case of airshows or demonstrations a straight safety line must be established. An area
away from the safety line must be maintained for spectators. Intentional flying behind the safety line is prohibited.
5. I will operate my model aircraft using only radio-control frequencies currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Only
individuals properly licensed by the FCC are authorized to operate equipment on Amateur Band frequencies.
6. I will not knowingly operate my model aircraft within three (3) miles of any preexisting flying site without a frequency-management agreement. A
frequency-management agreement may be an allocation of frequencies for each site, a day-use agreement between sites, or testing which
determines that no interference exists. A frequency-management agreement may exist between two or more AMA chartered clubs, AMA clubs and
individual AMA members, or individual AMA members. Frequency-management agreements, including an interference test report if the agreement
indicates no interference exists, will be signed by all parties and copies provided to AMA Headquarters.
7. With the exception of events flown under official AMA rules, excluding takeoff and landing, no powered model may be
flown outdoors closer than 25 feet to any individual, except for the pilot and the pilot's helper(s) located at the flightline.
8. Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch a model aircraft in flight while it is still under power, except to divert it from striking an
individual.
9. Radio-controlled night flying is limited to low-performance model aircraft (less than 100 mph). The model aircraft must be equipped with a
lighting system which clearly defines the aircraft's attitude and direction at all times.
10. The operator of a radio-controlled model aircraft shall control it during the entire flight, maintaining visual contact without enhancement other
than by corrective lenses that are prescribed for the pilot. No model aircraft shall be equipped with devices which allow it to be flown to a selected
location which is beyond the visual range of the pilot.
FREE FLIGHT
1. I will not launch my model aircraft unless I am at least 100 feet downwind of spectators and automobile parking.
2. I will not fly my model aircraft unless the launch area is clear of all individuals except my mechanic, officials, and other fliers.
3. I will use an effective device to extinguish any fuse on the model aircraft after the fuse has completed its function.
CONTROL LINE
1. I will subject my complete control system (including the safety thong where applicable) to an inspection and pull test prior to flying. The pull test
will be in accordance with the current for the applicable model aircraft category. Model aircraft not fitting a specific
category shall use those pull-test requirements as indicated for Control Line Precision Aerobatics.
2. I will ensure that my flying area is clear of all utility wires or poles and I will not fly a model aircraft closer than 50 feet to any above-ground
electric utility lines.
3. I will ensure that my flying area is clear of all nonessential participants and spectators before permitting my engine to be started.
Specialized Documents:
Radio Control Combat (#525)
General Radio Control Racing (#530)
Giant Scale Radio Control Racing (#515-A)
Gas Turbine Operation (note: Special Waiver Required) (#510-A)
Park Flyer Safe Operating Recommendations (#545)
First Person View (FPV) Operations (#550)
These special codes and appropriate documents may be obtained either from the AMAWeb site or by contacting AMA Headquarters.
HSS FLYING FIELD RULES Rev 31 Jan 2009
1.0 Field Rules The intent of these rules is to promote flying safety, financial responsibility and environmental protection by maintaining order, controlling frequency usage, educating and training flyers and acting as good neighbors to the community.
Rules are based upon the AMA Safety Code, the AMA field recommendations, FAA Advisory Circular AC 91-57, and field rules as established by the City of Costa Mesa and Harbor Soaring Society (HSS). All users must follow these rules to fly at Fairview Park.
2.0 Permit Requirements All pilots are required to have a permit to fly at Fairview Park, obtainable from the City of Costa Mesa Parks Department, with the following exceptions:
Visiting Pilots - These are licensed AMA members who are experienced pilots visiting Fairview Park to participate in a scheduled event. Members must show their AMA Membership license, review the Flying Field Rules, and are then allowed to fly in the event.
Inexperienced Pilots- These persons are new to the hobby and will not be aware of the Flying Field Rules, or how to fly a plane. These guests must locate an HSS member with an AMA Introductory Pilot rating. The HSS member will check the aircraft for airworthiness. Free flying lessons will be offered with the use of either the visitor’s plane or a club training plane and radio. This will be done with a buddy box if at all possible.
3.0 Environmental Protection Vernal pools are large, shallow depressions in the ground that acquire several inches of water during rainy seasons. These pools contain Fairy Shrimp which are an endangered species and are protected by Fairview Park ordinances. Everyone is restricted from walking in the vernal pool areas, whether wet or dry. Pilots should fly over the vernal pools only at an altitude that ensures they will not land in the pool area. In the event of an unavoidable landing in the vernal pool area, the pilot should retrieve his plane in a manner that degrades the area the least. Launching or landing aircraft equipped with floats is not permitted in the pools.
No harassment of animals and birds in the park is allowed. Do not disturb native plants.
4.0 Safety All pilots must follow the Official AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code, in addition to the following local requirements.
All aircraft flown at the park may be subject to a safety inspection by the HSS Field Safety Officer or his appointed delegates. Any aircraft considered to be in un-flyable condition by the Safety Officer shall be grounded. Any aircraft surviving a crash should be re-inspected before being allowed to fly again.
All new aircraft must have a radio range check performed before its first flight. Any crashed aircraft should also be radio range checked after repair.
All model aircraft must be identified with the owner’s name and address or AMA number on or in the aircraft.
Frequency Control. Two FCC specified frequency bands are allowed at Fairview Park. Radio systems using 2.4 GHz spread spectrum technology may be used at any time. Pilots using radio systems in the 72 MHz frequency band must follow the procedures shown below.
Before turning on his transmitter, each pilot must first check the frequency control board to ensure no other user is on his frequency. He must then place his identification clip on that frequency on the board. Identification clips are to have the channel number and the pilots first and last name. Only then may he turn on his transmitter and fly his aircraft.
When finished flying, the flyer must remove his clip from the control board. He must not attach his clip onto an existing clip. Only one frequency channel may be used by a flyer at a time.
When other flyers are using his frequency (have their clip on the frequency number), a pilot must make every reasonable attempt to locate those flyers. Check all cars in the parking lot and also flyers on the slope soaring area. Once any pilot using his frequency is identified, after personal discussion to decide shared usage, flights should be limited to 20 minutes.
5.0 General Field Rules
Approved types of planes - Approved types of planes include all forms of radio controlled gliders, motor gliders, electric powered models, electric helicopters, and free flight models. Models that may not be flown include fuel (gas) powered internal combustion engines, rockets, and aircraft exceeding 10 pounds take off weight.
Rules applicable to all model aircraft. Every pilot shall perform a pre-flight inspection prior to each launching his aircraft, to ensure that the aircraft is safe to fly and no unobserved damage was sustained from the previous flight.
Excluded Flying Areas - All aircraft are to avoid flying over the Waldorf School property, the parking lot, the vernal pools, and any pedestrians on or off paths, unless at a safe altitude.
Altitude Limitations – The altitude limit is 400 feet above ground level. Absolutely no flying above 400 feet.
Flying Methods - No Combat flying allowed. No High speed passes at low altitude over the runway or near people allowed. The flight line for powered aircraft is identified on the attached site map in front of the pit area. No flying behind the flight line allowed.
Hours of Use - The field may be used between the hours of 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM standard time or 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM daylight savings time, seven days a week except for those times when the field is closed for special events.
Pedestrian Traffic: - Pedestrians, skaters and bicyclists use the park. Pilots MUST NOT fly close to these visitors. Maintain a safe distance (recommend 100’) clearance between your aircraft and other park users.
6.0 Specific Flying Areas and Rules. Consult Flying Field Map (Attachment 1)
Gliders - Gliders shall be launched from the designated area marked on the map, using electric winches, electric motors or bungee hi-starts. The hi-start lines are to be set sufficiently out of the way to avoid fouling the winch lines. Both launch mechanisms are to be positioned to provide a 100’ buffer zone from the southwest end of the electric runway. During normal wind conditions, gliders will launch towards the southwest. Launch mechanisms may be turned around 180 degrees when prevailing winds come from the northeast. The glider landing area is as shown on the map, north of the paved foot path. Gliders should use the area north of the runway with care. Gliders in flight have right of way over powered aircraft. Gliders in flight have right of way over gliders being launched.
Electric powered model aircraft - Electric powered models are to be flown from the runway shown on the map. During normal wind conditions where the wind comes from the south west, planes shall take off into the wind and make a right turn (north) to avoid the buffer zone separating them from gliders. The landing pattern shall be a right hand pattern under these conditions. During reversed wind conditions (ie, early mornings) where the wind comes from the northeast, planes shall take off into the wind and make a left turn (north) to avoid the paved pedestrian path at the end of the runway. The landing pattern shall be a left hand pattern under these conditions. All landing patterns and flying areas shall be north of the runway, out over the brush. Do not fly behind the flight line (or dead line), over the paved pedestrian path or anywhere south of the runway. Powered aircraft must yield right of way to gliders. Pilots must remain out of the landing area except when retrieving their planes.
Slope soaring gliders - Slope soaring gliders may use the bluff at the western edge of Fairview Park. The landing area is the dirt area directly behind the bluff. Electric powered aircraft are not allowed on the bluff. Pilots should avoid landing in the vernal pools. Pilots should take care to follow frequency control procedures.
Motor gliders - Motor gliders should be launched in the vicinity of the glider winch and land in the glider landing area as shown on the map.
Hand launched gliders - Hand launched gliders are to be flown from the area designated on the map. Once airborne, they follow the same rules as other gliders, except landing may be done at the pilot’s discretion.
Helicopters and 3-D Stunt Planes – These aircraft are to be flown in the area indicated for electric power aircraft. Helicopters must give right of way to all other aircraft.
Free flight model aircraft - Free flight models are currently being flown on a grassy area within the developed part of the park.
7.0 Large Events. HSS is authorized to hold model aviation events that are scheduled by HSS and where a Special Event Permit has been issued by the City. During these 1 – 2 day events, the field will be closed to general public flying for part of each day, hours to be announced and posted at least 2 weeks in advance.
8.0 Regulations Enforcement. Members of the Harbor Soaring Site are empowered by the city of Costa Mesa to enforce these rules by requesting an offender to cease inappropriate behavior. If the offender refuses to change his behavior, the HSS member will contact a Park Ranger who will cite the offender and secure his/her permit.
9.0 Emergencies. Who to contact.
Medical emergency or injury, crimes, rules violations and unauthorized activites:
Call 911 for emergency or Costa Mesa Police Communications 714-754-5252
Request Park Ranger. They will page the park ranger.
Harbor Soaring Society:
Officers: President Henry Smith 714-322-6537
Vice President Chris Adamczyk 949-760-5038
Address: P.O. Box 1673, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(Pilots who cause damage to another’s aircraft through rules violation must pay for the damage.)