Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV's) Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, all requirements of the Standard Operating Procedures must be met, even when flying a micro drone under 250 grams.

UAV’s flown on University of Calgary (UCalgary) campuses, playing fields, owned or leased lands are restricted to those used for UCalgary purposes only.

With approval from Risk Management and Insurance you can fly a third parties drone. To get approval there must be a contract, signed by Supply Chain Management, that states who is responsible for insurance while the drone is being piloted by an approved UCalgary pilot and the value(s) of the drone and attached payload.

No, this type of flight prohibited above lands that UCalgary owns, leases or operates. If you are interested in stock footage that the University already has, please contact comms@ucalgary.ca to see what is available.

No, The use of University owned UAV’s for recreational purposes is prohibited.

Please visit the  UAV Incidents & Accidents page and following the directions provided.                                 

Research flights outside are possible, but only if the following criteria is met:

  1. The pilot has their advanced operations certificate.
  2. The UAV being flown meets the relevant RPAS Safety Assurance requirements and a “Drone Safety Assurance Declaration” has been filed with Transport Canada.

Research flights indoors are not subject to UAV Transport Canada regulations and only require approval from Risk Management and Insurance.

You could face serious penalties, including fines and/or jail time, if you break the rules.

Fines for individuals

  • up to $1,000 for flying without a drone pilot certificate
  • up to $1,000 for flying unregistered or unmarked drones
  • up to $1,000 for flying where you are not allowed
  • up to $3,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk

Fines for corporations/University

  • up to $5,000 for flying without a drone pilot certificate
  • up to $5,000 for flying unregistered or unmarked drones
  • up to $5,000 for flying where you are not allowed
  • up to $15,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk

If you break more than one rule, you could receive multiple penalties.