Definition of the open category: When flying a drone recreationally, you will often operate within the open category. This category includes drone operations where there is minimal risk of harm, such as photography and leisure flight.
Before flying in the open category, be aware of the following:
- Read your drone’s user manual.
- Obtain the correct drone certificate. For some drones, a certificate is not required. If your drone weighs up to 249 grams, including camera and equipment, a drone certificate is not necessary.
- Register as a drone operator and label your drone with the operator registration number. For some drones, registration as an operator is not required. Read more here.
- You must hold a valid drone insurance. Toy drones are exempt from insurance requirements.
- Check where you can and cannot fly on Dronezoner
- Log all drone flights for drones over 250 grams. If flying within a model flying club, a logbook is not required.
- You need express consent if you plan to fly over residential areas or near uninvolved persons. Read more about consent here.
- Familiarize yourself with the drone regulations here.
Below, we provide an overview of the regulation for drone flying within the open category. Remember, this is just an overview; you are always encouraged to review the legislation directly.