Huron OPP advise on flying unmanned aerial vehicles safely and legally

(HURON COUNTY, ON) - Whether you call it an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), a Drone or a model aircraft, operators of such devices need to understand there are rules and regulations that must be followed for safe and legal usage.
 
Over the past few weeks, Huron County OPP officers have investigated several cases of UAVs being flown illegally over private properties, particularly in rural areas. Understandably, citizens have concerns for their safety and security when these devices are spotted hovering over their property. In some cases, witnesses have reported multiple UAVs buzzing around their property.
 
"The OPP encourages recreational UAV/Drone users to always be responsible when operating in public places," says Wendy Burrow, Huron OPP acting staff-sergeant. "Operators must respect the privacy of others, as well as the safety of others. Please be a safe and responsible operator by following the regulations at all times."

The Huron OPP reminds UAV operators that they could face serious consequences - including fines and/or jail time - if they put aircraft at risk, fly where they are not allowed or endanger anyone's safety. In addition to Canadian Aviation Regulations, all operators of recreational and non-recreational UAVs must respect the Criminal Code and the Trespass to Property Act laws when flying their UAVs.
 
Transport Canada inspectors, along with local police services, investigate reports of unsafe and illegal Drone use. If you fly your UAV/drone for fun and it weighs more than 250 grams (g), and up to 35 kilograms (kg), you do not need special permission from Transport Canada to fly; however, the following rules do apply (rules and tips provided by Transport Canada):
 
Rules for Recreational UAV/Drones
 
The list below is an overview of the new rules for recreational Drone users. Consult the Interim Order Respecting the Use of Model Aircraft for the full list of provisions.

Following the basic safety rules below will help keep people, aircraft and property safe. If you fly where you are not allowed or choose not to follow the rules below, you could face fines of up to $3,000.

Fly your UAV/Drone

• Below 90 metres above the ground
• At least 30 metres away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your Drone weighs more than 250 g up to one kg)
• At least 75 metres away from vehicles, vessels, and the public (if your Drone weighs more than one kg up to 35 kg)
• At least 5.5 kilometres away from aerodromes (any airport, seaplane base, or areas where aircraft take off and land)
• At least 1.8 kilometres away from heliports or aerodromes used by helicopters only
• Outside of controlled or restricted airspace
• At least nine kilometres away from a natural hazard or disaster area
• Away from areas where operation could interfere with police or first responders
• During the day and not in clouds
• Within your sight at all times
• Within 500 metres of yourself or closer
• Only if clearly marked with your name, address, and telephone number

Here are some tips for recreational UAV/Drone users (under 250 g)

• Fly your Drone during daylight and in good weather
• Keep your Drone where you can see it with your own eyes - not through an on-board camera, monitor or smartphone
• Make sure your Drone is safe for flight before take-off; ask yourself, for example: Are the batteries fully charged? Is it too cold to fly?
• Respect the privacy of others; avoid flying over private property or taking photos or videos without permission

Property owners, should you encounter an UAV/Drone illegally hovering over your property, do not attempt to destroy the machine by shooting a projectile at it. This may escalate a situation that could otherwise be resolved in a peaceful manner. Please document the sighting, make detailed notes and contact the OPP through the non-emergent line at 1-888-310-1122.

If you think someone is flying a Drone in an irresponsible manner without a permit (e.g., flying close to other aircraft, near aerodromes, or at a high altitude) and it is not an emergency, complete and submit a Drone incident report form.

The following link has further information pertaining to flying your UAV/Drone safely and legally:
https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/civilaviation/opssvs/flying-drone-safely-legally.html