Be aware of the rules, northern Ont. police warn drone users

Police remind drone owners to follow the rules Police in northern Ontario are reminding people who fly drones they can face hefty fines if they don't respect Canada's drone regulations.

The Ontario Provincial Police is reminding the public that the list of restrictions for drone use is a long one.

“You have to see it at all times," said OPP Const. Bev Gauthier.

"It has to be below 122 metres – that's 400 feet in the air -- away from bystanders, a minimum distance of 30 metres for basic operation, away from emergency operations, advertised events avoid forest fires, outdoor concerts and parades."

The popularity of drones has grown of late, and especially since photographer Sheri Minardi got her drone pilot’s certificate in 2018.

Minardi said the misuse of drones is something she sees on a regular basis.

"I hike in Algonquin Park, Lake Superior Provincial Park," she said.

"You're not allowed to fly drones in parks without written consent. And there's little drones flying all over."

Flying a drone can be a lot of fun, Minardi said, but it comes with a lot of responsibility.

"I think it's important that you know the rules and regulations, as well," she said.

"So you don't hurt animals or other people or get in trouble flying in restricted zones."

Those restricted zones include airports, where drones aren’t permitted to be within 5.6 kilometres, and heliports, where they need to remain 1.9 kilometres away.

Gauthier said many other rules relate to the public's right to privacy.

"It's all about privacy," she said.

"And if you if you feel … your privacy (is) infringed upon, you know, give us a call. We'll go speak to the person."

Fines for operating a drone without following the rules are set out in the Canadian Aviation Regulations. They can range from $1,000 for recreational users, to $5,000 for commercial users.

Additional information, including where to get your drone pilot certificate, can be found on the Transport Canada website.