Getting a bird’s eye view of a property is about to change.
REALTORS® using drone photography to showcase their listings should take note that later this spring, anyone flying a drone will be required to register it and get a drone pilot certificate. Transport Canada has announced new rules and regulations for drones, which will take effect on June 1, 2019.
The new regulations will apply to all drones weighing between 250 grams and 25 kilograms that are flown for any purpose—fun, work or research. The new regulations no longer differentiate between recreational and commercial drone operations, but rather recognize two categories, basic operations and advanced operations, each with its own set of rules to follow. Both categories require drone pilots to register and mark their drone with its registration number, as well as pass an exam for their pilot certificate.
A basic drone operation is when you fly your drone in uncontrolled airspace, where no air traffic controls are provided, at least 30 metres (100 feet) away from bystanders. An advanced operation is when you fly your drone in a controlled airspace, monitored by air traffic control, or within 30 metres and over bystanders. All drone operations will also need to follow additional flight guidelines, such as staying below an altitude of 122 metres (about the same height as a 30-storey building) and staying away from airports and other air traffic.
For more information about the rule changes, visit Transport Canada’s website.
