Federal Government Wants Drone Registration

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- They are the talk of the electronic world and a growing concern for local and federal law enforcement. Now the federal government is looking to step in to make all drone owners register with the FAA.

Marcus Washington with more.

Toy drones are anticipated to be the top item on many Christmas lists, with shoppers rushing to get them off shelves this year.

"A lot of kids, they want it. I think a lot of grownups as well, they want them," said Joshua Langley, Target employee.

But those new owners may face a temporary flying road block--the federal government now wants owners of drones to register the device with the FAA.

"If anything happens with them, you know what happened, who has them--everything to do around them," said Angelo Severson, shopper.

Current laws ban flying a drone over 400 feet or near an airport.

The FAA says it receives more than 100 reports a month of drones flying too close to planes.

"My kids would like one, but I would not buy one for safety reasons," parent Marsha Allenbaugh said.

Allenbaugh is for the drone registration. As for her 11-year-old daughter, Sophia, she just wants one.

"How you can fly them over things. I could watch my brother when he was outside and I could drive it over," she said.

"I think they should have them registered even though they are toys because serious things could happen," said Severson.

The FAA would like to have the registration in place by the end of the year, but no word on how the law would be enforced.