Where can I fly a drone in Ottawa?
Updated · From NAV CANADA and municipal data
Yes, but parts of Ottawa sit inside the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International control zone, where you need an Advanced RPAS certificate and NAV CANADA authorization through NAV Drone. Elsewhere a Basic certificate works if you stay 5.6 km from certified airports and 30 m from bystanders.
Controlled airspace over Ottawa
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International, ON: Class C control zone from the surface to 3,000 ft above sea level
Which airports affect drone flights in Ottawa?
Basic pilots cannot fly within 5.6 km of these certified airports. Advanced pilots can, with NAV CANADA authorization inside a control zone or by following the airport's established procedures outside one.
| Airport | Distance from centre | Tower |
|---|---|---|
| Macdonald-Cartier International (CYOW) | 6.2 km | Yes |
| Rockcliffe Airport (CYRO) | 13.5 km | No |
| Gatineau Airport (CYND) | 22.5 km | No |
| Carp Airport (CYRP) | 23.1 km | No |
There are also 3 certified heliports within 25 km, often at hospitals. Basic pilots must stay 1.9 km away from each.
Parks, schools and private property in Ottawa
Beyond parks, Complifly maps 493 schools, 18 hospitals and 5 stadiums in Ottawa where you should get the property owner's permission or avoid flying. Take-off and landing on private property always needs the owner's consent.
See the Ontario drone guide for provincial park rules.
Do I need a drone licence in Ottawa?
If your drone weighs 250 g to 25 kg, you must register it with Transport Canada and hold a drone pilot certificate. A Basic certificate (online exam) covers uncontrolled airspace. Flying inside the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International control zone requires an Advanced certificate.
How high can I fly a drone in Ottawa?
The limit is 122 m (400 ft) above ground level anywhere in Canada. Inside a control zone, the NAV CANADA authorization can set a lower ceiling or other conditions.
How do I get permission to fly in Ottawa's controlled airspace?
Hold an Advanced pilot certificate, use a drone with the right manufacturer safety declaration, then request an RPAS flight authorization in NAV CANADA's NAV Drone app before the flight. Keep a way to contact air traffic control while you fly.
Can I fly a drone in Ottawa parks?
City parks are restricted separately: Parks and Facilities By-law 2004-276 limits drone use in parks, and Complifly maps 1,656 park zones in Ottawa where a permit is required.
Can I fly a sub-250 g drone like a DJI Mini in Ottawa?
Drones under 250 g do not need registration or a pilot certificate, but you must not put aircraft or people at risk, and municipal park bylaws still apply.
Check an exact address
Rules change block by block. The free airspace checker shows the control zones, airports, NOTAMs and park restrictions at any Canadian address.
Can I fly here? →Sources
- Transport Canada: Where to fly your drone
- Transport Canada: Drone operation categories and pilot certificates
- NAV CANADA: NAV Drone authorization
General guidance based on the Canadian Aviation Regulations, not legal advice. Always confirm current NOTAMs and authorizations before you fly.