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  4. The rules

Drones

  • The rules
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The rules

Drones or remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) can be a fun, exciting hobby and have changed the way we do our jobs.

Safety in the skies is our top priority. To keep people, property and the environment around you safe, it's essential you know the rules that apply to you.

If you don't follow the rules when you fly, you could be hit with large fines and even possible jail time.

How to stay safe when you fly

  • Drone safety rules – are the main set of rules you need to follow at all times when you fly
  • Drone safety apps – download a CASA-verified drone safety app to easily find out where you can and can’t fly
  • Flying near emergencies – how you can help emergency staff to help others in times of need
  • Flying in public spaces – what to keep in mind when you're flying in public: near crowds and events, in national parkland and close to animals in the air, sea and on land
  • Travelling overseas with your drone – taking your drone on holiday? What you need to know when flying overseas or visiting Australia
  • First Person View (FPV) – what you need to know to fly FPV in Australia
  • Home built drones - the rules that apply when flying or modifying your custom-built drone

The law

  • Enforcement and penalties – how we make sure people follow the rules, and what happens if you don't.
  • Official documents and forms – remotely piloted aircraft legislation, regulation, guidance information and application forms.
  • Permissions and approval for model aircraft – get approval to operate model aircraft (including drones) within restricted airspace for recreational purposes
  • Drone safety signage – standardised national drone safety signage, what it means and how to display it.

Report unsafe flying

See someone breaking the rules? Help us keep our eyes on the sky and report unsafe drones.

Contact us

Have a question? Need help? Try asking our virtual assistant, which can be found in the bottom right hand corner of your screen.

You can also contact us through our online enquiry form.

Subscribe to our mailing list to keep up to date with the latest drone information and updates.

Last modified: 30 September 2020
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