Is it ok to fly Drones in National Parks?
The short answer is, often yes it is ok to fly Drones in National Parks! But there are some rules to follow, and some extra considerations to be aware of.
Rules keep everyone safe to enjoy natural environments
National Parks are home to wildlife, so it’s important that we look after them too.
image: Waterfall Rock Pools in the Mount Walsh National Park QLD (6th September 2023)
Drones in National Parks: recreational use
Whether you are a CASA licensed Drone operator or not, you need to stay compliant with the usual rules that apply when operating Drones in a National Park. This includes:
- Operating with a maximum altitude of 120 meters
- Keeping a minimum safe distance of 30 meters from people
- Maintaining line-of-sight with the Drone at all times
Read more about rules for operating drones, or see Drone Safety Rules at CASA.
If you are operating a Drone within a National Park which weighs less than 2kg for recreational purposes, you most liklely do not need permission.
Of course it’s best to be sure, to find out more check advice from CASA.
Drones and Wildlife
Operating Drones in National Parks may cause stress for wildlife like nesting birds. Drones can mimic predator behaviour and so it is important to stay clear and not directly approach wildlife during flight.
In fact it is illegal in QLD to operate a Drone within 100m of marine mammals such as dolphins.
For more see Drones and Wildlife information (Department of Environment and Science QLD).
image: Lake Lenthall in the Wongi State Forest QLD (6th June 2023)
State Forests are generally the same.
It’s always best to check!
Drones in National Parks: commercial use
If you are operating Drones in National Parks within QLD that exceed 2kg in weight, and/or for commercial purposes, you may need permission. The best way to get started is to submit a notification to Parks Access, or to find out more go to the Business Queensland information page.
It’s easy to submit a notification
Our experience with this service has been absolutely positive. Staff at Park Access (QLD department of Environment and Science) are quick to respond to queries and are able to provide real information. They proactively follow-up queries with relevant National Park management bodies if necessary, and are generally a pleasure to deal with.
Pre-lodgement meetings for larger applications
Interestingly they also offer advice to assist in larger-scale project applications. Check out their pre-lodgement meetings process.
Not All National Parks are ok!
Use of Drones in National Parks is not always permitted. Some have limitations and restrictions enforced.
These are just some restricted areas. The best source of information is the Department of Environment and Science (QLD) website.
Some Restricted Park Areas:
- Capricornia Cays National Park
(12 or more islands) - Carnarvon National Park
(certain protected areas) - Currawinya National Park
- Hinchinbrook Island National Park