You need approval to launch, land or operate a drone from within a national park or other reserve managed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Our Drones in parks policy provides information on using drones and how to apply for approval. Using drones for commercial filming or photography is also subject to the Filming and photography policy.
Before you fly a drone in a park
- Get approval from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Services – see the Drones in parks policy.
- Check for any incidents or events that will stop you flying by going to the park Alerts page.
- Read and make sure you comply with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) drone safety rules at Know Your Drone.
When flying a drone in a park
- Only fly in the park, or part of the park, that you have approval for.
- Carry a paper or electronic copy of your approval with you.
- Stop immediately if emergency or bushfire operations are occurring.
- Stay at least 100 metres away from whales and other marine mammals.
- Fly according to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's drone safety rules.
Reporting unauthorised or unsafe behaviour
- If you see someone using a drone in a national park where drones are not allowed, or getting too close to marine mammals, you can report this to NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service on 1300APARKS (1300 072 757) or at [email protected]
- If you see someone breaking drone safety rules, you can report it to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority at Drone complaints
Check the department's page on Approaching marine mammals in New South Wales for details or contact 131 555 for more information.
