By Robert Haugh

Santa Clara residents may see drones flying near utility poles and electrical equipment beginning Monday, July 6.

Silicon Valley Power (SVP) says crews from Osmose Utilities Services will conduct inspections throughout the City as part of SVP’s ongoing maintenance program.

The work will include drone inspections of electrical distribution poles and equipment. 

SVP says most drone inspections will take less than five minutes per pole.

The use of drones may raise privacy issues from residents, but SVP says the inspections will focus only on utility infrastructure.

“No images of private property or individuals are intentionally collected,” according to the announcement.

SVP also says all drone operations will comply with Federal Aviation Administration regulations and established safety standards.

Crews will also conduct ground-based assessments of overhead and underground infrastructure, including wooden utility poles, underground vaults and surface-mounted equipment.

The City-owned utility says the inspections are designed to identify potential problems before they affect service. 

The assessments will also help SVP prioritize maintenance, improve reliability and make future infrastructure investment decisions.

Residents should expect to see Osmose vehicles and field crews in neighborhoods. SVP says the vehicles will be clearly marked. Personnel will wear identification, high-visibility safety vests and hard hats.

Residents with questions can contact SVP at 408-244-7283.