Public Safety

Police and law enforcement agencies use various drones to enhance their operations. Some of the commonly used models include:

• DJI Matrice 300 RTK: Known for advanced AI, lengthy flight time, six-directional sensing, and versatile camera options. Ideal for operations like search and rescue, as well as surveillance.

• Parrot ANAFI USA: This drone from French manufacturer Parrot offers 32x zoom, 4K HDR video, and thermal imaging. Its quiet operation makes it apt for surveillance and covert missions.

• Sky Hero Loki 2: Designed for tactical operations, the Loki 2 is a compact and robust drone. Its quick deployment capabilities make it a favourite for rapid response scenarios and covert missions.

These drones are just a few of the many available options, and the specific model chosen often depends on the unique needs and budget of the respective law enforcement agency.

Flying drones in public areas in the UK is regulated by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Here are some general rules and guidelines regarding drone flights in public areas as of  2022:

1. Registration: Drones weighing 250g-20kg with a camera require CAA registration and a flyer ID obtained after passing an online test.

2. Distance Rules:

• Stay 50m away from people, vehicles, and buildings not under your control.
• Drones over 250g: No flying within 150m of congested areas or large crowds.

3. Height Limit: Maximum altitude of 120m (400ft).

4. Visual Line of Sight: Your drone must always be visible to you without external aids.

5. No-Fly Zones:

• Avoid airports and airfields.
• Check for other zones using the ‘Drone Assist’ app by NATS.

6. Privacy: Don’t capture individuals without consent, especially in private settings.

7. Parks: Check local council rules before flying in public parks.

8. Heritage Sites: National Trust and English Heritage sites often have restrictions. Seek permission first.

9. Weather: Fly only in good conditions; avoid rain, strong winds, or fog.

10. Night Flights: Use appropriate lighting if flying at night.

For the latest regulations, always refer to the CAA’s official website.

January 2022, flying drones in public parks in the UK is subject to both national regulations and local bylaws. Here’s a breakdown:

1. National Regulations:

   • Drone and Model Aircraft Registration and Education Scheme (DMARES): If your drone weighs between 250 grams and 20 kilograms, you must pass an online theory test to get a flyer ID. Moreover, the person who is responsible for the drone or model aircraft must register to get an operator ID. Your operator ID must be displayed on your drone or model aircraft.
   • Fly Safely: You must always keep your drone in your line of sight and not fly above 120 metres (400 feet). Additionally, you should not fly within 50 metres of people, vehicles, or buildings not under your control.
   • No-Fly Zones: Remember that there are areas, such as near airports, where drones are not allowed. Ensure you are aware of the no-fly zones by using tools like the Drone Assist app provided by NATS.

2. Local Bylaws and Permissions:

   • Even if national regulations allow you to fly drones in certain areas, local councils might have bylaws that prohibit or restrict the flying of drones in public parks. It’s crucial to check with the local council or park authorities before flying.
   • Some councils allow drone flying in specific parks or areas within parks, while others might prohibit it altogether.

3. Privacy Concerns:

   • The UK’s data protection laws, including the Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), may apply if you capture footage of individuals, even unintentionally. Make sure you’re aware of these responsibilities and always avoid invading people’s privacy.

Recommendation: Before flying a drone in a public park in the UK, always check both national regulations and local bylaws or restrictions. It’s a good practice to contact the local council or visit their website to get information on drone use in public parks.

Remember that drone regulations and local rules can change, so always make sure to stay updated with the latest guidance.

As of 2022, in the UK, it is legally permissible to fly a drone over a public road, but there are strict rules and regulations that must be adhered to. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is responsible for regulating drone usage in the UK, and they have set out a number of conditions for drone operations.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Distance from People and Property: Drones must not fly within 50m of people, vehicles, buildings, or structures, or over congested areas or large gatherings such as concerts and sports events. This means that while you can fly over a public road, you must ensure you’re maintaining this distance from any vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians using that road.

2. Line of Sight: You must always keep the drone within your visual line of sight. This generally means you should be able to see the drone without binoculars or other aids (other than corrective lenses).

3. Height Limit: Drones must not be flown at a height exceeding 120m (400ft).

4. No-Fly Zones: Ensure that you’re not in a restricted airspace or a no-fly zone. Areas near airports, government or military facilities, and certain other locations are off-limits. Apps and websites such as the Drone Assist app, provided by NATS (the UK’s main air traffic control service), can help you determine where these zones are.

5. Insurance: If you’re using the drone for commercial purposes, you need to have insurance that covers risks to third parties.

6. Permission for Commercial Operations (PfCO): If you’re using your drone for commercial purposes, you might require a PfCO from the CAA.

7. Drone and Model Aircraft Registration: Drones weighing between 250g and 20kg that are used outdoors must be registered with the CAA and the operator must pass an online test to get a flyer ID.

Always make sure to check the CAA’s official guidance and any updates to the law or regulations before flying. The regulations can change, and there might be local bylaws or restrictions that apply as well. If in doubt, seek advice from a legal expert or the CAA directly.

Drones can be used in a variety of tasks in the fire service, ranging from search and rescue to environmental evaluation. Using thermal imaging, pilots are able to gain an understanding of a fire’s structure meaning that they can safely plan access routes. Additionally, ground troops can be told exactly where target the hotspots of a fire.

Through using specialised sensors, operators are able to establish unsafe or hazardous environments (such as gas leaks) without compromising the safety of staff or equipment.

Starting to use commercial drones in the UK involves a series of steps to ensure that you comply with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Research and Understand the UK’s Drone Code:

   • Before anything else, familiarise yourself with the UK’s Drone Code. This provides the basic rules for safe drone flight.

2. Choose the Right Drone:

   • Depending on your commercial needs – whether it’s for photography, surveying, or another purpose – choose a drone that fits your requirements.

3. Obtain the Required Permission:

   • To use a drone commercially in the UK, you need to obtain an Operational Authorisation.
   • The process involves demonstrating that you can operate a drone safely and in a risk-assessed manner.

4. Complete a Recognised Training Course:

   • To get the Operational Authorisation, you’ll need to complete a training course with a recognised training entity. Coptrz are a top training provider in the UK. Check out our GVC course here.
   • You’ll also need to prepare an Operations Manual detailing how you intend to use your drone. We will guide you through this process if you chose to train with us.

5. Conduct a Flight Assessment:

   • After passing the theory exam and having your Operations Manual approved by the training entity, you’ll need to undergo a practical flight assessment.

6. Apply to the CAA:

   • Once you’ve passed your flight assessment and your Operations Manual has been approved, you can apply to the CAA for your Operational Authorisation.
   • There’s a fee associated with the application, and the CAA usually reviews applications within 28 working days.

7. Insurance:

   • Ensure you have the necessary third-party liability insurance.

8. Stay Updated:

   • Drone regulations can change, so it’s essential to stay updated on any new guidelines or requirements from the CAA.
   • Renew your Operational Authorisation annually and keep your training and skills up to date.

We have experts in the public safety sector who have trained and guided 80% of police force in the UK and hundreds of search and rescue organisations. If you want to get started, we recommend booking a free consultation here.