(Micro)drone Myths

​While it has never been directed at me personally, I have seen countless posts online claiming that using a drone in most of Halifax/Dartmouth is illegal. If you look at the following map one can understand why: all the red/orange is a no-fly zone without special permission and that pretty much covers all of Dartmouth and Peninsular Halifax. Further, it is claimed that to operate a drone like I use, you require a license since it is for commercial purposes. Seems to contradict our policy of always operating within the law, which is why I point out both claims are 100% FALSE. 

So, is this official map just a lie? Not at all! Drones ARE prohibited in these zones, with the important distinction that I (and some other home inspectors) use a Microdrone, which is categorized as a drone under 250 grams. The regulations requiring a license, flight plan, permission to fly in Halifax, etc. do not apply to Microdrones!

Don't take my word for it: this link is directly from Transport Canada and summarizes Microdrone regulations. If you wish to fall asleep quickly you can even look here for the full Aviation Regulations. Since you aren't going to read all that, let me summarize it for you: 

• Microdrones are only prohibited in Class F airspace (near Cow Bay & Magazine Hill) and emergency scenes (such as the recent wildfires in Hammonds Plains & Upper Tantallon).
• You CAN fly near an airport, hospital, bridge, Halifax Harbour, etc. unless special conditions exist. 
• While you can technically do things legally (such as fly near backyards, over crowds, or without any training) that doesn't mean it's a smart or safe idea. 
• While there are basically no prohibitions, that doesn't mean other laws don't apply, such as provincial and municipal regulations (no takeoffs/landings in parks for example). 
• While in the United States you are required to obtain an FAA license (which is the USA's version of Transport Canada) to operate a microdrone for any commercial purposes, this regulation does not apply in Canada. 

The use of a (micro)drone has provided me with some breathtaking shots of the beauty in our province. More than once I have had to stop myself from just wanting to take in the surrounding area during a property inspection. The regulations can basically be summarized in three words: don't be stupid. Fly safe and enjoy these pictures I took over the summer and fall of 2024.