Australia’s recreational drone safety rules have been around since 2002 and are designed to protect other people in the air and on the ground.

You must not fly your drone in a way that creates a hazard to another aircraft, person or property, so follow these rules every time you fly:

Flying commercially or for economic gain is illegal, unless you have your remote pilot licence or are flying in the sub-2kg category.

Follow the rules and have fun, but remember—your drone is your responsibility.

*Please be aware the above rules only cover aviation safety. Other rules may apply depending on where you are flying. These additional rules could be in effect and enforced by local councils, national parks or state-based government organisations like environmental agencies.

Sydney Harbour

Please note Sydney Harbour and its surrounding areas, including Middle Harbour, White Bay, Rose Bay and the Parramatta River up to the Ryde Bridge, is restricted airspace due to the helicopters and seaplanes that have permission to fly there.

All other aircraft—including drones—are prohibited from flying in these areas unless they have permission from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Not sure about where you can fly your drone?

Check out www.casa.gov.au/droneapp

It is a good idea to always research the area where you want to fly, checking with your local council or national park before you fly. There’s also advice on our Best practice: tips and tricks page.

Best practice: Tips and tricks

As well as following the safety rules, there are other things you need to think about to keep you and your drone safe.

Drone registration and accreditation scheme

We’re finalising plans for the scheme. No action is required at this time. Read more about the proposed changes.

Keep up to date by subscribing to our Remotely piloted aircraft systems (Drones) mailing list.

Buying and flying for the first time

After purchasing your first drone, you might be tempted to tear open the box and go flying straight away. Don’t!

Flying without first understanding your drone is likely to result in you crashing and destroying your aircraft. So make sure you read the operating instructions, follow the manufacturer’s guidance and fly in a safe, open location.

Battery safety

Batteries can be a hazard if not taken care of, so it’s important you look after them and inspect them after every use.

Whether they’re dropped, smashed or overheated, lithium batteries can become unstable if damaged. So, if your battery shows any signs of leaking, discolouring, bulging or deforming—replace it.

For more information, go to CASA’s battery safety web page.

Privacy

Privacy is an important issue that all drone owners need to think about. While rules vary from state to state, you should always respect personal privacy and not record or photograph anyone without their consent.

If you are concerned about drones and their implications for privacy, you can contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.

Whales, dolphins and eagles

There are certain members of the animal kingdom you need to keep your drone away from.

State-based environmental laws prohibit drones from flying within 300m of marine mammals, such as whales and dolphins. Fines for breaching these rules can range from $300 to $110,000.

Birds of prey, such as eagles, hawks and falcons don’t take kindly to a buzzing drone nearby, like this one.

So before you take off, it’s a good idea to check the area first and land if you see any flying talons nearby.

12 ways your drone can land you in trouble

Flight Safety Australia recently published ‘Dirty Dozen: 12 ways your drone can land you in trouble’. Read the article on Flight Safety Australia.

Have you seen someone breaking the drone rules?

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is responsible for regulating and overseeing drone safety in Australia. If you believe you have seen unsafe drone operations, report it to CASA by completing the online form.

CASA can issue fines of up to $1,050. If the matter is taken to court fines can be imposed up to $10,500.

Find out more about drone safety rules. Visit CASA’s drone homepage.

Flying commercially under 2kgs?

You can fly commercially without needing a licence, providing you register your details with CASA, complete a notification form and fly within certain conditions. Learn more about flying in the sub-2kg commercial category.

Want to become a remote pilot?

If you want a career as a drone operator you will need to get your remote pilot’s licence (RePL). Learn more about gaining your RePL.

12 ways your drone can land you in trouble

Flight Safety Australia recently published ‘Dirty Dozen: 12 ways your drone can land you in trouble’. Read the article on Flight Safety Australia.

Social media

CASA publishes safety advice, tips, tricks, videos and safety alerts for drone flyers via its social media channels.

Follow CASA to stay up-to-date on the all the latest drone-related safety material.

Download safety brochures

• Flying your drone for fun brochure
• Sub-2kg commercial brochure
• Flying over your own land brochure