Where necessary, in order to provide unobstructed airspace for the landing and taking off of aircraft utilizing airports and restricted landing areas acquired or operated under this article, the department may acquire, in the same manner as provided in Section 23-1-378, easements through or interests in airspace over land or water, interests in airport hazard areas outside the boundaries of the airports or restricted landing areas, and other airport protection privileges as necessary to insure safe approaches to the landing areas of airports and restricted landing areas and the safe and efficient operation thereof. The department may acquire, in the same manner, the right or easement, for a term of years or perpetually, to place or maintain suitable marks for the daytime marking and suitable lights for the nighttime marking of airport hazards, including the right of ingress and egress to or from airport hazards for the purpose of maintaining and repairing lights or marks. The authority granted to the department shall not be construed to limit the right, power, or authority of the state or any municipality to zone property adjacent to any airport or restricted landing area pursuant to any law of this state now existing or hereafter enacted.
Last modified: May 3, 2021