Drones in Calgary parks

Drones are permitted within some Calgary parks following guidelines set out by the Canadian Aviation Regulations and the Parks and Pathway Bylaw.

Drones that weigh 250 grams and over require a Calgary Parks Green Space Application, which can take up to eight weeks to approve. Due to their size, prior approval is required, increasing the risk to aircraft and people nearby.

Drones weighing less than 250 grams are permitted in park areas with cut grass (manicured for play or sports activities). The Parks and Pathways Bylaw allows for drones under 250g to be used in parks designated by the Director. To allow for easy access, all parks with grass that is mown or manicured are permitted. Flying in natural areas (those with long grass which may have nesting birds) is strictly prohibited.

Drones of any size are not permitted in the situations outlined below.

Fines for violations of these regulations range between $250 and $3,000.

Apply for a permit to use your drone in Calgary parks
A hand holding a drone controller beside a drone that is laid on grass

No drones are allowed

  • Near airports and helipads: For example, drones are not allowed in Prairie Winds Park as it is near the Calgary International Airport.
  • In natural areas with long grass: Birds nesting in long grass see drones as birds of prey and will abandon their nests and baby birds. Natural areas include Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, Nose Hill Park, Ralph Klein Park, Weaselhead Park and other natural areas. 
  • Near wildlife: Including birds, nesting trees, ponds, streams, rivers, wetlands and storm ponds.
  • Near playgrounds, spray parks or cemeteries. 
  • Over public gatherings or at advertised events: Keep drones away from park users.

Filing a complaint

If you know of a bylaw infraction and would like to report it, please call 311 (from within Calgary) or 403-268-CITY (2489) (from outside Calgary) or use the 311 app or:

Submit a complaint online

To help us respond faster, please be ready with the following information:

  • Your name and address
  • A primary and alternate phone number
  • The address and exact location of the property for which you wish to register a complaint
  • A brief and concise description of the complaint

This information will remain confidential. No anonymous complaints will be accepted - you must identify yourself with the 311 service representative.

Please include any related photos when reporting a complaint with the 311 app. This will assist the investigating officer.

Learn more about filing a bylaw complaint and the process.

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