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Drone Rules in Canada — Plain English (2025 Update)

2025-08-20 • 2 min read

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Flying FPV in Canada? The rules can feel overwhelming, so here’s a clear, plain-English guide to Transport Canada’s regulations. Always confirm details on the official sites before you fly.

Quick take: If your quad is ≥ 250 g, you need a pilot certificate (Basic or Advanced). FPV always requires a visual observer (spotter). Max altitude 400 ft AGL. Stay clear of people and controlled airspace unless certified and authorized.

1) Weight classes#

  • Under 250 g (tinywhoops, some cinewhoops): no certificate required, but safety rules still apply.
  • 250 g – 25 kg: requires a pilot certificate (Basic or Advanced); aircraft must be registered and marked.

2) Pilot certificates#

Basic#

  • Uncontrolled (Class G) airspace only.
  • Keep > 30 m from bystanders.
  • Not allowed in controlled airspace/near airports.
  • Online exam.

Advanced#

  • For controlled airspace and/or flying near people (with the right aircraft safety assurance).
  • Online exam + in-person flight review.
  • Distance limits can be reduced with proper approvals.

3) FPV specifics (spotter required)#

  • Goggles don’t replace VLOS.
  • You must use a visual observer (spotter) who maintains VLOS and can communicate instantly with the pilot.

4) Airspace & locations#

  • Uncontrolled (Class G): generally OK with the appropriate certificate.
  • Controlled (C/D/E): requires Advanced certificate and NAV CANADA authorization (use NAV Drone).
  • No-fly / restricted: airports, advertised events, emergency scenes, some parks/critical infrastructure. Check NOTAMs and bylaws.

5) Registration & marking#

  • Drones ≥ 250 g must be registered and marked with the registration number on the airframe.
  • Carry proof of registration and your pilot certificate.

6) Penalties (typical ranges)#

  • Individuals: up to $1,000–$3,000 depending on the offence.
  • Corporations: up to $5,000–$15,000 for serious violations.

FPV Pilot checklist (Canada)#

ScenarioWhat you need
Sub-250 g cinewhoop in a fieldNo certificate • Follow safety rules • FPV spotter
5″ quad (≥ 250 g) in Class GBasic certificate • FPV spotter
Near people / in controlled airspaceAdvanced certificate • Aircraft approval • NAV CANADA authorization • FPV spotter
Any FPV flightFPV spotter maintaining VLOS
All aircraft ≥ 250 gRegistration + number marked on frame

Official references#

Summary: Match your certificate to the airspace, always use a spotter for FPV, register drones ≥ 250 g, and plan/authorize controlled-airspace flights with NAV Drone.