Understanding the framework
The popularity of drone photography in the GTA has skyrocketed, but with that growth comes a need for clarity around legal responsibilities. Whether you’re a business owner commissioning footage or a homeowner hiring a pilot, understanding the basics of Ontario’s drone laws protects everyone involved.
Certification levels
Transport Canada divides drone operations into Basic and Advanced categories.
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Basic operations apply to flights in uncontrolled airspace, far from bystanders and airports.
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Advanced operations cover flights in controlled airspace or within 30 metres of people — conditions that describe most urban projects in and around Toronto.
Only operators who hold an Advanced Operations Pilot Certificate and use compliant aircraft are authorized to perform commercial work in these areas.
Airspace permissions
Southern Ontario’s airspace is complex. The Greater Toronto Area overlaps several controlled zones managed by NAV CANADA. Even seemingly rural sites can fall within restricted flight radii around helipads or small airports. Certified pilots obtain electronic authorization through NAV Drone or formal permits before each flight. Clients should always confirm that this approval process is part of the workflow.
Insurance and liability
Under Canadian aviation rules, any commercial drone operator must carry adequate liability coverage. Reputable providers maintain $2 million or more, though many, including Flight 77, carry $5 million insured drone services to satisfy municipal and corporate requirements. Insurance protects both pilot and client if property damage or injury occurs.
Privacy and data management
Drones can capture more than intended. Responsible operators respect privacy by avoiding footage of neighboring properties and complying with PIPEDA and municipal bylaws. Professional pilots also ensure that image storage and sharing follow secure data-handling practices.
Municipal and site-specific rules
Cities such as Toronto, Mississauga, and Vaughan have additional bylaws regulating take-off and landing on public land. Construction sites may require safety briefings or coordination with general contractors. Understanding these local layers helps avoid project delays.
Why compliance matters
For clients, hiring uncertified or uninsured pilots poses serious risk. Transport Canada can issue fines exceeding $5,000 to individuals and $25,000 to companies for illegal operations. Beyond penalties, unapproved flights can endanger people or aircraft — jeopardizing your brand reputation.
About Flight 77
Flight 77 follows every Transport Canada and municipal regulation for aerial video in Toronto and throughout Ontario. Our pilots are Advanced Operations Certified, fully insured, and experienced in obtaining NAV CANADA and municipal permits. We serve Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, and across the GTA.
Keywords: drone photography GTA, aerial video Toronto, licensed drone pilot, Transport Canada Advanced Operations Certified, $5M insured drone services, Ontario drone regulations
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