How to Do a Drone Site Survey (and Why Canadian Rules Require It)

A site survey is a structured look at the place you’re about to fly: airspace, obstacles, people and conditions. For advanced operations, the Canadian Aviation Regulations require a site survey before flying, and records of it. For basic operations, it’s simply the best habit you can build.

The five parts of a site survey

1. Airspace

• Is the area in controlled or uncontrolled airspace?
• Any airports, heliports or water aerodromes nearby?
• Any restricted areas or NOTAMs (temporary restrictions)?
• Do you need NAV CANADA authorization? See controlled airspace.

2. Land use and permissions

• Who owns the take-off and landing site? Do you have permission?
• Is it a national, provincial or city park with drone restrictions? See parks and city laws.

3. Obstacles and terrain

• Power lines, towers, antennas, trees, buildings, cranes.
• Terrain that blocks your line of sight or radio link.
• Sources of interference: large metal structures, transmitters.

4. People and activity

• Where are bystanders likely to be? Roads, paths, beaches, playgrounds?
• Is there an event nearby? See advertised events.
• Where can you keep 30 m from people (basic operations)? See flying near people.

5. Weather and environment

• Wind and gusts at ground and flight altitude — see flying in wind.
• Temperature and its effect on batteries.
• Visibility, precipitation, fog, risk of icing.
• Sun position (glare) and time of sunset.

Plan your areas

On-site final check

1. Confirm the conditions match your plan.
2. Look up for wires and birds.
3. Brief your crew.
4. Run your pre-flight checklist.