Can I Fly
My Drone in
My Backyard?

Last edited on March 4th 2024

Drone Rules and Regulations

In Canada, if you plan to fly a drone that weighs 250 grams or more, obtaining a license is mandatory, even if you're flying over your own private property. However, indoor or underground drone operations are not regulated by Transport Canada. The Canadian drone regulations are put in place by Transport Canada, the country's regulatory body. There are two options for obtaining a drone license: basic or advanced.

Flying a drone in your backyard in Canada requires obtaining a license from Transport Canada.

Drone Licenses: Basic vs Advanced

To get a basic license, you must pass an online exam, while to get an advanced license, you must pass both the online exam and an in-person flight review. Basic drone operators are not allowed to fly their drones in controlled airspace, while advanced operators have more flexibility. The type of license required is not based on whether the drone operation is for professional or recreational purposes, but it is important to note that even if you are flying on your own private property, you must have a valid drone pilot certificate and fly a marked and registered drone. You might be asking - "Where do I take the drone exam?". But before you take the exam remember Transport Canada recommends completing a course first.

The Rules for Flying Drones Over Private Property

When flying a drone over private property in Canada, there are several rules and regulations that must be followed. It's important to receive permission from the owner of the property on which the drone intends to take off or land. This should be done during the site inspection and prior to the start of operations. According to Canadian Aviation Regulations, before commencing operations, the pilot must conduct a site survey to determine that the site for take-off, launch, landing or recovery is suitable for the proposed operation. This site survey must take into account factors such as the boundaries of the area of operation, the type of airspace and regulatory requirements, the proximity of manned aircraft operations and aerodromes, the location and height of obstacles, and the predominant weather conditions. By following these rules and regulations, drone pilots can ensure the safe and responsible use of drones over private property.

The Potential Consequences of Breaking Drone Laws in Canada

Operating a drone without a license can result in serious legal consequences, including fines of up to $1,000 for individuals and $5,000 for corporations, and potentially even jail time. Learn more about the potential fines drone pilots can face. There are two types of licenses available in Canada: basic and advanced. Basic license holders are not allowed to fly in controlled airspace, while advanced license holders are, and advanced operators must demonstrate their knowledge of the rules and regulations for flying a drone. Obtaining a drone license has a number of benefits, such as the ability to legally fly in Canada, open up new job opportunities, and legally capture aerial footage. Flying a drone weighing above 250 grams without a license is illegal for any purpose in Canada.

Where Can I Fly My Drone?

Basic drone pilots must follow the rules outlined in Part 9 of the Canadian Aviation Regulations, including flying at least 30 meters away from people not involved in the operation and not flying in controlled airspace. Some of the requirements for both basic and advanced drone pilots include staying below 400 feet, maintaining visual line of sight, avoiding crowds and other aircraft, following local laws and regulations, and keeping the drone away from power lines. The best places to fly drones in Canada include open fields and remote areas. In some cases, drone pilots may need to obtain permission to fly their drone in specific areas, such as private property or national parks.

Best Practices for Responsible Drone Flying in Your Backyard

Flying a drone in your backyard in Canada requires obtaining a license from Transport Canada and following the rules and regulations set forth by the country's regulatory body. The two options for obtaining a drone license are basic or advanced, with basic license holders not allowed to fly in controlled airspace, while advanced license holders have more flexibility. Prior to taking off and landing, it is important to receive permission from the owner of the property. Property owners permission should be obtained while conducting a site survey to determine that the site is suitable for the operation. Breaking drone laws in Canada can result in serious legal consequences, including fines and jail time. Safe drone flying practices include staying within visual line of sight, avoiding crowds and other aircraft, following local laws and regulations, and keeping the drone away from power lines and other structures. The best places to fly drones in Canada include parks, open fields, and remote areas. Obtaining a drone license opens up new job opportunities and allows you to legally capture aerial footage.