Residents of Coober Pedy have been advised not to be alarmed if they notice drones flying over town in coming days.

Council has confirmed the drones will be used to photograph Council assets.

The operation is expected to take approximately seven minutes.

Authorities have not yet confirmed what the drones will photograph for the remaining six.

Residents are asked to assist by reporting any Council assets they may still be aware of, particularly those which:

• haven't been sold
• aren't broken
• haven't been fenced off
• haven't mysteriously disappeared
• can still be positively identified as belonging to Council

There are also important biosecurity considerations.

As the drones will be flying, residents are reminded that they may technically be birds.

Should any drone display symptoms of bird flu — including erratic flight, unusual noises, loss of altitude or attempting to mate with migratory birds — DO NOT APPROACH IT.

The drone should be immediately isolated and humanely euthanised.

This is particularly important because an outbreak of drone flu could potentially spread to Council's remaining fleet.

Assuming one can be located.

Council has reassured residents that the aerial photography program will create a comprehensive photographic record of its assets.

The Historical Society is reportedly thrilled.