Drone Laws in Vancouver: Park Board Rules, Regional Parks and YVR Airspace

Mountains, ocean and skyline make Vancouver irresistible for aerial photography, but the region layers several sets of rules on top of federal law.

City of Vancouver parks and beaches

The Vancouver Park Board’s bylaws restrict flying motor-driven model aircraft in parks except in designated areas, which in practice means recreational drone take-offs and landings in city parks and beaches — including well-known spots like Stanley Park and Kitsilano Beach — require permission. Commercial filming goes through permit processes.

Metro Vancouver regional parks

Metro Vancouver’s regional parks bylaw prohibits the take-off or landing of a drone in a regional park without a park permit. This covers large parks such as Pacific Spirit, Lynn Headwaters and Capilano River regional parks.

Other municipalities

Several neighbouring municipalities restrict drones in their parks — for example, Richmond’s parks bylaw and the District of North Vancouver’s parks bylaw. Always check the bylaw of the specific municipality.

Provincial and national parks

• BC Parks doesn’t allow recreational drone use in provincial parks without authorization — see B.C. drone laws.
• Parks Canada places such as Gulf Islands National Park Reserve are no-drone zones for recreation — see Canadian parks.

Airspace

Vancouver International Airport (YVR), the Vancouver Harbour water aerodrome and seaplane routes, heliports and several smaller airports put much of the region in controlled airspace or close to aerodromes. Basic pilots can’t fly in controlled airspace; Advanced pilots need NAV CANADA authorization — see NAV Drone.

Wildfire season

In B.C., flying near a wildfire can bring provincial fines of up to $100,000 and a year in jail — see drones and wildfires.

How to fly legally around Vancouver

1. Check airspace first; many attractive spots are in controlled airspace.
2. Take off from private land with permission, outside parks and beaches.
3. Get the Advanced certificate if you want to work in the city.
4. Stay well clear of seaplane routes and the harbour.