Can I Fly a Micro
or Mini Drone
Anywhere in Canada?

Last edited on August 15th 2025

Rules for Micro / Mini Drones

Micro drones — drones weighing less than 250 grams — are not subject to many of the same rules as heavier drones in Canada. They don’t need to be registered with Transport Canada, and you don’t need a drone pilot certificate to fly them.

No person shall operate a remotely piloted aircraft system in a reckless or negligent manner.

That said, they are still subject to CAR 900.06, which says:

No person shall operate a remotely piloted aircraft system in a reckless or negligent manner that endangers or is likely to endanger aviation safety or the safety of any person.

In plain language — fly with common sense. Be aware of other aircraft, approach paths, people, privacy, and property.

New Rule as of April 1, 2025: Microdrones at Advertised Events

Until now, micro drone pilots were allowed to fly above or near advertised outdoor events as long as they flew safely. That has changed.

As of April 1 2025, if you want to fly your micro drone at any advertised outdoor event, you must first get a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) from Transport Canada.

An “advertised event” means any outdoor gathering that is promoted to the public — this could be through posters, websites, Facebook, Instagram, or any form of public advertising. Examples include:

• Concerts or music festivals
• Sporting events
• Farmers’ markets
• Public parades or cultural celebrations

If there’s a flyer, social media post, or website telling people about it — it counts as advertised.

Good Practice

Transport Canada also recommends the following for micro drones (these are guidelines, not laws — except the new advertised event rule):

• Keep the drone in visual line of sight
• Stay below 400 ft (122 m) above ground
• Keep a safe distance from bystanders
• Stay away from aerodromes, critical infrastructure, and other aircraft
• Conduct a pre-flight inspection
• Maintain a reliable connection with your controller

Where You Can Fly a Micro Drone

Outside of the restrictions above, micro drone pilots have more freedom than those flying drones 250 g and up:

• Can fly in controlled or uncontrolled airspace
• Can fly closer than 30 m to people
• Can fly within 3 NM of an airport (as long as it’s done safely)
• Can fly over private property (while respecting privacy laws)

Remember: these privileges don’t override other laws — you still can’t fly in restricted airspace (Class F), forest fire NOTAM zones, or parks that prohibit drone takeoffs and landings.

Key Takeaway

While micro drones still offer the most flexibility for recreational pilots in Canada, you can no longer just show up at a public event and fly. If the event is advertised, you’ll need to apply for and be approved for an SFOC before you can take off.

Fly safe, follow the guidelines, and know the rules — that’s how you keep your mini drone fun and trouble-free.