Making recreational spaces ‘drone-ready’Consultancy support for Local Authorities and land owners

Why do I need guidelines on the use of drones?

Drones have been the must have tech gadget two years running. Each year models get cheaper, more advanced and consequently more accessible to the general public. This Christmas is going to be no different, with thousands of consumers opening their new ‘toys’ on Christmas Day.

Looking ahead / increase in drone ownership

But what happens on December 25th when there's a mass switch on of new devices, do people know what to do with them? Do they understand the law around drones and will your local parks be a no-go danger area?Parks and recreational grounds are a popular location for hobbyist flyers. Many consumers take the time to learn about the Civil Aviation Authority guidelines around drone use, though many do not.

Do you have a policy on the use of drones in your parks and recreation grounds?

Are you aware of the laws surrounding drones?

Do you have clear signage up informing people of what they can and cannot do?

We can help!

Why not adopt a zero tolerance ban?The popularity of drones is on the increase. Hobbyists are constantly looking for open spaces to fly. Airspace is not directly controlled by landowners and parks offer an ideal locationPolicing a total ban is resource intensive and at times impractical. Also, the use of licenced, commercial operators is on the increase and they are often in need of finding safe open spaces to operate from in accordance with risk management plans A visible policy on your website and in your parks and open spaces provides clarity to hobbyists and gives commercial operators an official process to follow

Who are fireFLY?Established in May 2015, fireFLY Aerial Innovation are a leading Midland commercial UAV operator. Our pilots are CAA licensed and experienced operating a variety of unmanned aircraft up to 20Kg. As well as being members of the UK trade association for remotely piloted aerial systems, fireFLY have also advised the UK aerodrome safeguarding team on the impact of drones on manned aviation and regularly provide qualification training to new potential pilots.

Safety and responsible use are at the heart of the company’s goals and our ambition is to use our experience to influence others on not only the hazards, but also the incredible benefits of this emerging technology

How can we help?• Face to face meeting/demo explaining

the • regulations relevant to drones• Implications of restrictions/total ban• Process for reporting illegal activity

• Develop a clear, consistent and practical policy for the use of drones (hobbyists and commercial operators)

• Develop a checklist covering what to do if a commercial operator contacts you, to include:• Risk assessments• Times of operation• Purposes• Privacy impact

• Review/appraisal of their land parcels – Is it possible or safe to fly there?

• Risks• Hazards• Recommendations

• Propose clear and consistent signage, Including:

• Design• Printing • Installation

• Advise on social media and online notices and information to promote safe and proper use

• Organise events such as drone awareness days