Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Thursday, 15 January, 2015. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Warning on drone use in municipality

Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulations state that drones or model aircraft must be within line of sight during daylight hours and cannot be operated at night. They must also not flyer closer than 30m to vehicles, boats, buildings or people or be flown over any populous area such as people’s backyards, heavily populated parks or sports ovals where games are in progress.

They must also not be operated within 5.5kms of the Shepparton aerodrome and not fly higher than 120 metres.

Greater Shepparton City Council Director Infrastructure Steve Bowmaker said the rules were straightforward and there to protect people’s privacy and safety. “It’s likely that drones or model aircraft were gifted as Christmas presents to people who have never used them before and we ask they be aware of the regulations around their use.”

“It is illegal also to fly for money or economic reward unless you have an unmanned operator’s certificate issued by CASA,” said Mr Bowmaker. “I recommend users make themselves familiar with the CASA and Model Aeronautical Association of Australia regulations.”

Greater Shepparton City Council manages the Shepparton Aerodrome. Visit www.casa.gov.au/sportaviation and www.casa.gov.au/rpa or phone 131757 for more information.