Can I Fly
My Drone
in Toronto?

Last edited on Jan 11th 2024

Introduction: Can I Fly My Drone in Toronto? A Comprehensive Guide

Toronto is one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the world, but it also poses some challenges for drone enthusiasts. Whether you want to capture stunning aerial views of the cityscape, explore its rich cultural heritage, or simply have some fun with your flying device, you need to be aware of the rules and regulations that govern drone operations in Canada. In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guide to flying drones in Toronto, covering everything from the legal requirements, the best places to fly, how to get permission to fly at popular landmarks, and the consequences of flying drones illegally.

The best places to fly, how to get permission to fly at popular landmarks, and the consequences of flying drones illegally.

Legal Requirements When Flying Drones in Toronto

Drones, also known as remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), are regulated by Transport Canada, the federal department responsible for transportation in the country. According to Transport Canada, anyone operating a drone in Canada must follow the rules set out in Part 9 of the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs). These rules apply to drones that weigh 250 grams (g) up to and including 25 kilograms (kg), and are operated within the drone pilot’s visual-line-of-sight. The rules introduce two categories of drone operations: basic and advanced. The categories are based on distance from bystanders and on airspace rules.

Basic operations are those that take place in uncontrolled airspace, away from bystanders and airports. For basic operations, you need a basic RPAS operator certificate, which you can get by passing an online exam. Advanced operations are those that take place in controlled airspace, near bystanders or airports. For advanced operations, you need an advanced RPAS operator certificate, which you can get by passing an online exam and a flight review. You also need a drone that meets certain safety requirements. In addition to getting a drone pilot certificate, you also need to register your drone with Transport Canada and mark it with its registration number. You also need to carry your drone pilot certificate and proof of registration whenever you fly your drone. It is important to familiarize yourself with these rules before taking to the skies in Toronto. You should also respect all other laws when flying your drone, such as those related to privacy, trespassing, and criminal offenses.

Flying Drones in Toronto’s Public Parks

One of the most common questions that drone pilots have is whether they can fly their drones in public parks. The answer is not so simple, as it depends on the type of park and the type of operation. In general, it is not allowed to fly drones in any provincial or national parks without prior permission, which can be challenging to obtain. These parks are protected areas that aim to preserve natural and cultural heritage, and flying drones there can pose risks to wildlife and visitors. In Toronto, there are no specific bylaws that prohibit recreational drone flying in public parks, but it is strongly discouraged by the City of Toronto. The City advises drone pilots to respect the privacy and safety of park users and wildlife, and to avoid flying near playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, or other park amenities. It is possible to fly there with an advanced certification, but it requires prior permission from NAV Canada and the City of Toronto.

Other municipalities in Ontario may have different bylaws regarding drones in public parks. For example, according to the Mississauga Bylaw, “no person shall operate any model aircraft or drone within any park unless authorized by permit.” This bylaw applies to any remotely controlled aircraft or vehicle that weighs less than 35 kg. Therefore, it is advisable to check the local bylaws before flying your drone in any public park in Ontario. You should also follow the general rules for flying drones safely and legally, such as keeping your drone within visual line of sight, maintaining a safe distance from other aircraft and people, and not flying over crowds.

Flying Drones Safely in Toronto’s Downtown Area

If you’re planning to fly your drone in the downtown area of Toronto, you need to be extra careful and responsible. Flying in a densely populated area like downtown Toronto poses many challenges and risks for drone pilots, such as potential collisions with other aircraft or buildings, interference with radio signals or GPS navigation, or privacy complaints from residents or businesses. To fly your drone safely and legally in downtown Toronto, you need to follow all local laws and regulations. You will need an advanced RPAS operator certificate to operate in downtown Toronto, as it is considered controlled airspace. You will also need airspace authorization from NAV CANADA before you fly your drone there. You can request airspace authorization by using the Nav Drone app, which allows advanced drone pilots to request authorization to operate in controlled airspace. You will also need permission from the property owner if you want to take off or land your drone on private property.

If you’re flying for work, you may need a film permit particularly if you’re operating off of City of Toronto property. You should also respect the privacy rights of others when flying your drone, and avoid capturing or sharing any images or videos of people without their consent. When flying in downtown Toronto, it is best to choose a location that is safe and legal. Always be sure to have property owner’s permission, airspace authorization, and remain a safe distance from bystanders. You should also avoid flying near critical infrastructures, such as power plants, bridges, or government buildings, as they may have additional security measures or restrictions.

How to get permission to fly drones at popular landmarks in Toronto

If you’re looking to fly your drone at popular landmarks in Toronto such as the CN Tower, or the Distillery District, you need to obtain the necessary permissions. This can include getting permission from the property owner, as well as obtaining airspace authorization from NAV CANADA if necessary. Drone pilots in Canada can obtain airspace authorization by using the Nav Drone app, which allows advanced drone pilots to request authorization to operate in controlled airspace. It is important to note that even with the Nav Drone app, you will still need to obtain permission from the property owner. Some popular landmarks in Toronto may have specific rules or restrictions for drone operations. For example, the CN Tower does not permit drones to launch from their property without express permission and strongly discourages flying above or around the CN Tower due to the risk of signal loss caused by interference from the broadcast facilities. The Distillery District is a private property that does not allow drones without permission from the management.

Therefore, it is advisable to contact the property owner or manager before flying your drone at any popular landmark in Toronto. You should also follow the general rules for flying drones safely and legally, such as keeping your drone within visual line of sight, maintaining a safe distance from other aircraft and people, and not flying over crowds.

Conclusion: Fly Your Drone Responsibly and Enjoy the View

Toronto is a beautiful and exciting city to explore with your drone, but it also comes with some challenges and responsibilities. As a drone pilot, you need to follow the rules and regulations that govern drone operations in Canada, as well as respect the privacy and safety of others. You also need to obtain the necessary permissions and authorizations before flying your drone at certain locations or landmarks. By doing so, you can avoid fines, penalties, or legal troubles, and enjoy your drone hobby without any hassle. Fly your drone responsibly and enjoy the view!