Where can I fly a drone in Montreal?
Updated · From NAV CANADA and municipal data
Yes, but parts of Montreal sit inside the Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International control zone, where you need an Advanced RPAS certificate and NAV CANADA authorization through NAV Drone. Elsewhere a Basic certificate works if you stay 5.6 km from certified airports and 30 m from bystanders.
Controlled airspace over Montreal
- Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International, QC: Class C control zone from the surface to 3,000 ft above sea level
Which airports affect drone flights in Montreal?
Basic pilots cannot fly within 5.6 km of these certified airports. Advanced pilots can, with NAV CANADA authorization inside a control zone or by following the airport's established procedures outside one.
| Airport | Distance from centre | Tower |
|---|---|---|
| Pierre-Elliott-Trudeau International (CYUL) | 9.4 km | Yes |
| Boisvert And Fils Airport (CSA4) | 13.1 km | No |
| Met (Aeroport Metropolitain De Montreal) Airport (CYHU) | 20.2 km | Yes |
There are also 4 certified heliports within 25 km, often at hospitals. Basic pilots must stay 1.9 km away from each.
Parks, schools and private property in Montreal
Beyond parks, Complifly maps 956 schools, 49 hospitals and 17 stadiums in Montreal where you should get the property owner's permission or avoid flying. Take-off and landing on private property always needs the owner's consent.
See the Quebec drone guide for provincial park rules.
Do I need a drone licence in Montreal?
If your drone weighs 250 g to 25 kg, you must register it with Transport Canada and hold a drone pilot certificate. A Basic certificate (online exam) covers uncontrolled airspace. Flying inside the Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau International control zone requires an Advanced certificate.
How high can I fly a drone in Montreal?
The limit is 122 m (400 ft) above ground level anywhere in Canada. Inside a control zone, the NAV CANADA authorization can set a lower ceiling or other conditions.
How do I get permission to fly in Montreal's controlled airspace?
Hold an Advanced pilot certificate, use a drone with the right manufacturer safety declaration, then request an RPAS flight authorization in NAV CANADA's NAV Drone app before the flight. Keep a way to contact air traffic control while you fly.
Can I fly a drone in Montreal parks?
City parks are restricted separately: Règlement sur les parcs R.R.V.M. c. P-3 limits drone use in parks, and Complifly maps 2,362 park zones in Montreal where a permit is required.
Can I fly a sub-250 g drone like a DJI Mini in Montreal?
Drones under 250 g do not need registration or a pilot certificate, but you must not put aircraft or people at risk, and municipal park bylaws still apply.
Check an exact address
Rules change block by block. The free airspace checker shows the control zones, airports, NOTAMs and park restrictions at any Canadian address.
Can I fly here? →Sources
- Transport Canada: Where to fly your drone
- Transport Canada: Drone operation categories and pilot certificates
- NAV CANADA: NAV Drone authorization
General guidance based on the Canadian Aviation Regulations, not legal advice. Always confirm current NOTAMs and authorizations before you fly.