Drone Permits
The operation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, is permitted on the University of Toronto’s St. George campus when all university guidelines, Transport Canada regulations, and U of T’s internal review process are followed.
All drone activity requires prior approval from Campus Events & Conference Services (CECS).
How to Request Approval
To request permission or inquire about drone use, please email the Campus Events & Conference Services team with the following information:
- Contact Information: Full name, phone number and email of the pilot/operator.
- Drone & Flight Details: Drone model/type, weight class, proposed date(s), flight times and purpose.
- Flight Map: A site map of the proposed flight area, including clear launch and landing zones.
- Launch/landing must take place on U of T property (not sidewalks, streets or City of Toronto property).
- Insurance: Proof of at least $2,000,000 liability insurance, naming The Governing Council of the University of Toronto, 27 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1 as additional insured (external operators only).
- Pilot Certification:
- Standard drones (250g–25kg): Transport Canada pilot certificate + NAV Canada RPAS flight authorization.
- Microdrones (under 250g): No license or NAV Canada approval required, but operator details and a flight map must still be provided.
Requirements
| Requirement | Standard UAVs | Microdrones under 250g |
|---|---|---|
| Contact Information | Required | Required |
| License Documentation | Required | Not required |
| Drone & Flight Details | Required | Required |
| NAV Canada Approval | Required | Not required |
| Flight Map/Aerial View | Required | Required |
| Insurance | Required | Required |
Additional Guidelines
Flight Authorization & Airspace Sensitivity
The campus is near Billy Bishop Airport and hospital helipads (SickKids, St. Michael’s). Operators must avoid interfering with manned aircraft and emergency flights.
Construction & No-Fly Areas
Active construction sites and cranes are designated no-fly zones. Flight paths must be planned to avoid these areas.
Campus Activity & Privacy
Flights may be restricted during busy times or large-scale events (e.g., Convocation, Orientation). All drone activity must respect the safety and privacy of students, staff and visitors.
Campus Safety Support
For larger UAVs or complex flight plans, a Campus Safety Officer may be assigned to manage pedestrian or traffic safety.
Compliance
All UAV operations must strictly follow Transport Canada regulations.
Next Steps
Once your request is submitted, CECS will review your plan with internal stakeholders. Approvals will be confirmed in writing before flights may proceed.
