How Updates to Canada’s Drone Regulation May Impact REALTORS®
Stay informed of your obligations.
Drone use is taking flight like never before, and the rules are evolving to keep pace. Amendments to Transport Canada’s drone regulations came into force on November 4, 2025, with some changes already in effect as of April 1, 2025.
The latest updates highlight how personal drone use is becoming more sophisticated, and with that a growing need to prioritize public safety and ensure operators are trained to fly safely and responsibly.
What’s changed?
Transport Canada’s recent regulatory updates include:
- New requirements for flying microdrones (under 250 grams) at advertised events, which now require a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC).
- A new pilot certification for lower-risk beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations, called Level 1 Complex Operations.
- New and updated fees for services provided by Transport Canada, including exams.
Visit Transport Canada for a detailed account of the changes.
While most of Transport Canada’s recent regulatory changes apply to more complex drone operations, REALTORS® who use drones in their business should still take note as some of these updates could affect how you fly.
Ensure you’re informed
When Transport Canada’s drone regulations were first introduced in 2019, CREA published three resources to help REALTORS® understand how the rules might impact their business: a general guidance document, an FAQ, and an infographic about conducting drone operations.
CREA has refreshed these member resources, including an updated infographic, now available on member.CREA.ca.
The article above is for information purposes and is not legal advice or a substitute for legal counsel.
