Drones are more formally known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV).

In North Devon there are no byelaws in place which prevent drone flying on council owned land or property.

To help with requests about filming with drones, we have produced some guidelines.

Drone filming guidelines

Any pilot/company wishing to film or take off/land on council land or property must:

• get permission and approval from the council first for the filming
• have appropriate permission from the CAA for your use and be able to provide proof of this
• provide an up-to-date copy of their public liability insurance
• carry out a site assessment in advance
• make sure the area is safe at all times whilst using the drone
• comply with the current CAA Air Navigation Order and the current Drone Code
• indemnify the council against any injury or damage caused
• have in place suitable secure arrangements for the handling of personal data captured

The responsibility of any flight and its legalities rests with the drone operator. The CAA’s Drone Code provides helpful information to drone operators and also makes sure members of the public are protected.

More information and advice on all aspects of unmanned aviation including guidance on their safe use can be found on the CAA website. General information for members of the public about drones and their use can also be found on the website.

You can find out  more information about professional filming on North Devon Council owned land/property on our website.

please email communications@northdevon.gov.uk

Drone filming by the council

If the council wishes to film using a drone, we will only hire a pilot/company with the appropriate CAA permission.