How to Fly a Drone Legally

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According to Radio-Canada, news rules regulating drone piloting should be implemented in the fall of 2025. These rules will simplify long-distance drone flights and potentially open the door to other drone uses such as deliveries and aerial mapping. However, be prepared for stricter rules regarding pilot certification and to new weight limits for your drone. In the meantime, are you aware of your current obligations as a drone pilot? 

In Canada, you can use your drone in the national airspace. However, you need to follow some rules. Individuals flying a drone that weights 250 g to 25 kg must have a drone pilot certificate and a proof of registration. You also need to respect rules when you fly over certain areas or private properties. Make sure you are all set before you take off! 

Your obligations over certain areas  

To fly your drone legally, you need to respect particular rules flying over these areas: 

  • airports, water airports, heliports and aerodromes, 
  • national parks, 
  • emergency sites (for example: police intervention security perimeter or around a natural disaster), 
  • events (for example: outdoor concerts and sports events). 

These specific rules vary depending on the area your drone flies over. For example, you might need to get a specialized certificate, respect distance limits and comply with flight procedures established by Transport Canada.  

You could have to pay a $1,000 fine if you use your drone without respecting an area’s specific rules. You could also have to pay a $5,000 fine if you compromise the safety of an aircraft or people while using your drone. 

Your responsibility over private properties 

You can use your drone over a private property (a house or a commercial building). However, you must respect the owner’s or tenant’s rights. Here are the essential rules you need to follow:  

  • You must get prior consent from individuals to film or take pictures of their faces or license plates. 
  • Your drone must fly at a reasonable height over people and buildings to respect the peace and safety of the neighbourhood. 

You can minimize your risks by taking some precautions:  

  • Get permission from owners and tenants to use your drone over their residence, 
  • Purchase a liability insurance to cover any damages your drone might cause.  

You could also have to pay a $5,000 fine if you compromise the safety of people while using your drone. 

Did you know you need to have certain documents with you when operating a drone between 250 g and 25 kg?

When flying your drone, make sure to have either a paper or electronic copy of the following documents:

  • your pilot certificate,
  • a clearly visible proof of registration of your drone,
  • proof that your knowledge is up to date,
  • the user manual for your drone.

You could be fined up to $1,000 if you fly your drone without your pilot certificate or proof of registration.