UK Drone Regulations
Please see the page Remotely piloted aircraft and drones at the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) they legislate use of drones and other RC aircraft. See their full regulations and guidance here.
Please double check their guidance and laws before investing in a drone. They are liable to change at any time, so this article may become out of date at any time.
Key Points (at the time of writing):
- You must register before flying most drones or model aircraft outdoors in the UK.
- Register as an operator (this is a legal requirement for all drones or model aircraft weighing 250g or over; and for all drones or model aircraft with a camera, apart from toys).
- If the drone is less than 250g you still may have to have an operator id.
- If the drone is over 250g you will need both an operator ID and a flyer ID.
- You must keep the Drone in your direct sight at all times while it is flying
- You must not fly more than 400ft/120m above the surface
- You must not fly within the Flight Restriction Zone of a protected aerodrome, or within any other airspace restriction without permission.
- You must fly your drone at least 50 meters (164 feet) away from people and property.
- You must fly your drone within sight at all times.
- You must not fly your drone higher than 400 feet (122 meters).
- You must not fly your drone over or near large gatherings of people, such as concerts or sports events.
- You must not fly your drone within an airport’s flight restriction zone.
- You must not fly your drone in a careless or reckless manner.
USA Drone Laws
In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates the use of drones, also known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). The FAA has a set of rules and guidelines for flying drones, known as Part 107, to ensure the safety of people and property.
Here are some of the main restrictions on flying drones in the US:
- You must fly your drone below 400 feet (122 meters) in altitude.
- You must fly your drone within visual line of sight at all times.
- You must not fly your drone over people, unless they are directly participating in the drone operation or are located under a covered structure.
- You must not fly your drone over stadiums or sporting events.
- You must not fly your drone within 5 miles (8 kilometers) of an airport without prior authorization.
- You must not fly your drone in a careless or reckless manner.
It’s important to note that these are just a few of the restrictions on flying drones in the US. You should always check the FAA website for the most up-to-date guidelines and follow them to ensure the safety of others and to avoid potential legal consequences.
California Drone Laws
Please check the Federal Aviation Administration website to check latest rules, regulations and guidance.
- You need to register drones above 250g / 0.55 lbs.
- You must keep the drone in line of sight
- You must respect other people’s privacy
Register a Drone In The UK.
To get a flyer ID it is free and neds to be renewed every 5 years.
If you are the drone operator you need to register for £10 yearly and have your operator id marked on your drone.