Microdrones are drones with an operating weight of less than 250 g.
The weight of the remote control is not factored into the weight calculation of the aircraft, but the weight of anything attached or carried, such as optional cameras or safety cages, will be considered part of the operating weight. Pilots of microdrones don’t need to register their drone or get a drone pilot certificate to fly them; however, you must not operate your drone in a reckless or negligent manner as to endanger or be likely to endanger aviation safety or the safety of anyone.
You must stay away from emergency sites such as housefires, traffic accidents, floods and wildfires.
As a pilot of a microdrone, you have a responsibility to use good judgment, identify potential hazards, and take all necessary steps to avoid any risks associated with flying your drone.
As a recommended practice, you should always:
- maintain the drone in direct visual line-of-sight
- fly your drone below 400 feet in the air
- keep a safe horizontal distance between your drone and any person
- stay far away from aerodromes, airports, heliports and water aerodromes
- avoid flying near critical infrastructure (utilities, communication towers, bridges, etc.)
- stay clear of all aircraft at all times
- do a pre-flight inspection of your drone
- keep the drone close enough to maintain the connection with the remote controller
To fly any drone at an advertised event, including a drone weighing less than 250 g (a microdrone), you must get a Special Operations Certificate (SFOC) for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).
All drones are considered aircraft under the Aeronautics Act and Canadian Aviation Regulations and are therefore prohibited to enter restricted airspace without permission.
Respect all other laws
You must respect all other laws when flying your drone.
You must respect trespassing laws.
You must respect the privacy rights of others when you fly.
Penalties
You could face serious penalties, including fines and/or jail time, if you break the rules.
We also investigate reports of unsafe flying. We may involve local police if you break other laws.
Fines for individuals
- up to $3,000 for flying where you are not allowed
- up to $3,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk
Fines for corporations
- up to $15,000 for flying where you are not allowed
- up to $15,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk
If you break more than one rule, you could receive multiple penalties.