Drone law in the UK

What are Drones?

Drones or uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) are simply machines that are remotely controlled by a person on the ground.

Are Drones legal?

The short answer is yes. However, there are rules and regulations that you must adhere to in order to ensure you are on the right side of the law. As drones are still quite new, the law around their use is constantly evolving so it is a good idea to ensure that you are fully up to date with the latest changes.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) gives guidance on what is require prior to flying a drone.

What are the rules for flying Drones in the UK?

The use of drones is divided into three categories by the CAA:

• The ‘Open Category’ allows you to fly when the flight is low risk. For example, flying a low-weight drone or operating in the countryside.

• The ‘Specific Category’ focuses on high-risk drone flights, such as flying over a residential area. In this scenario, you need to acquire permission from the Civil Aviation Authority.

• The ‘Certified Category’ is for heavier drones carrying packages and parcels.

Basic rules are the same for all drones, however, rules on drones weighing less than 250g differ slightly.
The text in bold below, apply to all drones including those weighing less than 250g.
• The drone must always be kept in line of sight, (line of sight is defined as being able to see the orientation of the drone)

• Never fly more than 400ft / 120m above the surface

• Never fly in a flight restriction zone

• Drones or model aircraft with a camera must display a valid operator ID

• never fly over a crowd (Unless they have an OA stating otherwise)

• You must keep a minimum horizontal distance of 50m between your drone or people (This includes people in buildings and transport, including cars, lorries, trains, and boats.)

• Keep at least 150m away from residential, recreational, commercial and industrial sites (unless the pilot has an operational authorisation stating otherwise)

Failing to comply with these rules could lead to prosecution.

Please click below if you wish to discover more information relation to drone categories.
Website: The Drone rules

The pilot of the drone must possess insurance if they are flying for anything other than Sport or recreational purposes.

Can I commit a criminal offence when flying my drone?

Yes, there are many offences which a pilot can commit whilst piloting a drone, here are a few of the most common/serious ones.

• Without reasonable excuse, fail to comply with a requirement imposed by a constable to ground an uncrewed aircraft.
• flying a drone close to an emergency incident.
• Endangering a person or property during a flight.
• Endangering the safety of an aircraft