Use of drones at Parks Canada places

Drone flying is a popular hobby and useful in many fields of work.  However, drones can pose risks to visitors, disturb wildlife and lead to negative experiences for other visitors to Riding Mountain National Park. For these reasons, Parks Canada strictly limits the use of drones.

Anyone caught operating a drone within park boundaries and without an approved permit may result in law enforcement action and a fine of up to $25,000.

Flying for fun

Non-recreational use

Field Unit Superintendents may authorize limited use of drones for:

• natural and cultural resource management
• public safety
• law enforcement
• park/site management purposes (including filming and photography for outreach, education and promotional purposes)

For non-recreational drone usage, you will need:

• permission from the Field Unit Superintendent
• confirmation that you meet Transport Canada’s requirements

The risks and impacts of drone flight vary depending on time/season and location; therefore, each application is evaluated separately.

Commercial video and photography

You must identify the desire to fly a drone in your Film and Photography Permit application. Please contact the park or site directly.

Scientific research

You must identify the desire to fly a drone in your Research and Collection Permit application.

Other uses

For other uses, please contact the park or site directly.

Report a drone

If you witness the use of a drone in Riding Mountain National Park, please report the incident to park wardens via Parks Canada Dispatch 1-877-852-3100.

Useful links:

• Public notice: Drone and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) use
• National Parks of Canada Aircraft Access Regulations
  
• Aeronautics Act: Governs the use of UAV systems in Canada
• Transport Canada: Flying your drone safely and legally (new rules)