The Orlando City Council in the US has passed a new ordinance with an aim to regulate drones flying in the commercial airspace of the city, as well as ensure safety.

Following the approval, local law enforcement will be able to take action against users flying their drones near public venues and for snooping purposes.

“We are giving our police officers the ability to stop any dangerous behaviour."

The new regulation also prohibits the owners to mount any weapons on their drones or unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

The ordinance is in addition to the regulations already set by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in terms of commercial drone flights in the country.

Orlando mayor Buddy Dyer was quoted by Orlando-politics.com as saying: “We’re not anti-drone.

“This would not effect anyone that uses a drone in a responsible manner.

“We are giving our police officers the ability to stop any dangerous behaviour. We’re not shutting you down.”

With the passing of the new regulation, a ‘drone zone’ will be outlined for users to operate their aircraft without a pilot. UAV owners breaching this will be fined between $200 and $400, while a permit fee starting at $20 an event, or $150 a year, will be required to fly a drone.

The rule also stipulates that users caught operating drones under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be arrested and jailed, reported Wesh.com.