Drone Use: Legal Basics & Responsible Conduct What you must do:- Register & obtain IDs — If your drone weighs over 250 g (or has a camera), you must register with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to get an Operator ID. If you fly that drone, you must also hold a valid Flyer ID.
- Keep the drone in sight (VLOS) — Always maintain direct visual line-of-sight with your drone. Binoculars or other aids do not count.
- Respect altitude limits — Do not fly above 120 metres (400 feet) above ground level.
- Stay away from people and property — Unless people are part of your operation, maintain at least 50 metres horizontal distance from uninvolved people, buildings and vehicles.
- Avoid restricted airspace — Do not fly near airports, airfields, or other restricted zones unless you have explicit permission.
- Respect privacy — If your drone has a camera and might record private property or individuals, be aware of privacy laws and data-protection principles. Avoid filming identifiable individuals or private homes without consent.
What you must NOT do- Do not fly a drone without the required Flyer ID or Operator ID (if applicable). This is a legal offence.
- Do not fly above 120 m (400 ft).
- Do not fly over crowds, assemblies, large public events, or densely built-up/residential areas in a way that breaches the 50 m-distance rule.
- Do not fly in restricted airspace (near airports, airfields, helipads) unless specifically authorised.
- Do not fly if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs — or in a manner that endangers people, property, or other aircraft.
- Do not land or take off from private property without the owner’s permission — entering land without consent may constitute trespass.
What to bear in mind (good practice)- Even if flying over private property is not strictly illegal, intrusive flying — especially low over homes, gardens, or near people — can raise serious concerns around privacy, nuisance, and safety.
- Avoid flying near emergency incidents, public events, or operational sites like police stations — not only may these be restricted zones, but unauthorised drone activity can hinder emergency services.
- If you see a drone being flown suspiciously (e.g. persistent over private property, low-level, filming without consent), you can report it — for non-emergencies ring 101, or 999 if there’s immediate danger.
Drones are useful and enjoyable when used responsibly — but misuse can cause: - Safety risks (collisions with people, vehicles, other aircraft)
- Privacy intrusions (unauthorised filming or surveillance)
- Distress or alarm to residents — especially in residential areas
As part of community vigilance and neighbourhood watch efforts, we ask all residents who fly drones to follow the rules carefully, respect neighbours’ privacy, and think twice before aiming a camera near homes or gardens. If you are unsure whether a flight is legal, or witness suspicious activity, please report it to the Staffordshire police either by calling 101, Crimestoppers or via the online reporting system www.staffordshire.police.uk. |
