Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or drones in Canada’s national parks

Drone flying is a popular hobby for many people and may also be used for commercial purposes. However, Drones can pose risks to visitors, disturb wildlife and lead to negative experiences for other visitors to Banff National Park. For these reasons, Parks Canada strictly limits the use of drones.

Anyone caught operating a drone within park boundaries and without an approved permit may result in law enforcement action and a fine of up to $25,000.

Recreational drone use – Prohibited

Recreational drone flying is prohibited across all Parks Canada locations. Please do not fly your drone in the park.

Commercial drone use – By permit only

The Superintendent may only issue a Restricted Activity Permit for the use of a drone for the following purposes:

• Natural or cultural resource management and protection
• Public safety
• Law enforcement
• Park/site management purposes directly relating to park administrative purposes

If you would like to apply for a Restricted Activity Permit for the use of a drone, you must submit a written proposal to banff.superintendent@pc.gc.ca. In your proposal you must clearly demonstrate how your intended use of a drone supports any of the above purposes. If your project involves commercial filming, please refer to the commercial film and photography guidelines for the mountain national parks for more information.

Report a drone

If you witness the use of a drone in Banff National Park, please report the incident to park wardens via Banff Dispatch 403-762-1470.

Useful links:

• UAV Restricted Activity notice for Banff National Park
• National Parks of Canada Aircraft Access Regulations
• Aeronautics Act: Governs the use of UAV systems in Canada
• Transport Canada: Flying your drone safely and legally (new rules)