Drones

Drones – also known as remotely-piloted aircraft (RPAs) – are considered by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to be aircraft. States and territories may regulate drone use consistent with Commonwealth aviation law.

Drone pilots in the ACT must comply with Australia's drone rules as well as any rules imposed by the ACT Government.

Risks

While drones are fun to use and can be useful for search and rescue, event photography and scientific research, their recreational use in reserves can adversely affect wildlife and impact on the privacy and enjoyment of visitors. The lithium batteries used in drones can cause intense fires in any crash. Drones also present a serious risk to park operations such as to the helicopters used in emergency management activities.

Drones in reserves

Flight and operation of drones is prohibited in all Nature Conservation Act 2014 reserves in the ACT.

Drone flight may be approved for some purposes, such as conservation research, through the issuing of a nature conservation licence. Conservation officers may also pilot drones in reserves where drones are otherwise prohibited, for management purposes.

Drone pilots must comply with the CASA rules and any licence conditions.

Other public areas

In other public areas, the CASA rules apply to drone flight.

More information

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24 December 2025 until 25 December 2025

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triple zero 000

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Drones

Risks

Drones in reserves

Other public areas

More information