Drones

We have developed this procedure for those wishing to film commercially using a drone. This includes condition inspections of council buildings and assets.

You will need to adhere to the following requirements if using a drone, but this list is not exhaustive. For specific advice, you should contact an independent specialist.

Drones are formally known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and can fly up to 400ft (restricted airspace starts at 500ft).

Requirements

The below guidance applies to flying UAV that weigh between 250g to 25kg.

You must: 

• have passed the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) official theory test to obtain a flyer ID before flying a drone or model aircraft and follow their regulations and advice (or you could be prosecuted)
• ensure every drone or model aircraft you’re responsible for must be registered and labelled with an operator ID obtained from the CAA
• provide evidence of permission(s) gained from the CAA as appropriate
• provide us with a health and safety risk assessment identifying risks and steps to mitigate those risks (this must be completed beforehand)
• submit a flight plan which includes take-off and landing sites
• send us a copy of your public liability insurance certificate (£10,000,000 cover)
• obtain our permission to take off and land your drone on council land or property
• be aware that you are legally responsible for safely flying your drone
• avoid using your drone in bad weather, such as strong winds or heavy rain
• make sure all the parts of the drone are working according to the supplier’s manual before flying
• keep the drone in direct sight when flying and maintain a full view of the surrounding airspace
• not fly your drone within 50 metres of a person, building structure, or transport unless you own or have owner’s permission
• not fly over crowds or above them at any height
• remember it is illegal to fly your drone over congested areas such as streets, towns, cities, public spaces and airport
• remember using a drone to record images of other people without their consent could be a breach of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the CCTV Code of Practice