The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles or Drones in rural Ontario is increasing, but there are some safety and privacy issues that the OPP are concerned about.
Huron County officers have investigated several cases of UAV operators illegally flying over private properties in the last few weeks, particularly in rural areas. Local residents have expressed some safety and security concerns to police. In some cases, witnesses have reported multiple UAVs buzzing around their property.
The OPP remind UAV operators that you could face fines and/or jail time if you put aircraft at risk, fly where you're not allowed, or endanger anyone's safety.
In addition to Canadian Aviation Regulations, all operators of recreational and non-recreational UAVs must respect the Criminal Code and the Trespass to Property Act laws when flying UAVs.
If you fly your UAV/drone for fun and it weighs more than 250 g and up to 35 kg, you do not need special permission from Transport Canada to fly.
Transport Canada inspectors along with local police services investigate all reports of unsafe and illegal drone use.
"The OPP encourages recreational UAV/drone users to always be responsible when operating in public places," says OPP Acting Staff Sergeant Wendy Burrow. "Operators must respect the privacy of others, as well as the safety of others. Please be a safe and responsible operator by following the regulations at all times."
Drone photo, Huron County
(BlackburnNews.com photo)
