The village of Northport is considering a law to regulate unmanned drones.

Northport could be the fourth municipality on Long Island to put strict limits on drones. The proposed law would require drone operators to be fully licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration, fly no higher than 400 feet and not fly near any sensitive public utilities or buildings.

Village Police Chief Bill Ricca says the law would protect privacy and public safety.

Drones have become increasingly popular for photographers and hobbyists, but one aviation expert says that drones should only be regulated by the FAA. Dowling College professor Jim Record teaches drone safety to many students. He says federal law should always supercede local laws when it comes to flight and aircraft.

A public hearing on the issue with be held at 6 p.m. next Tuesday at Northport Village Hall.