CRT drone use policy

Purpose 

The objective of this policy is to establish guidelines and procedures for the responsible and safe use of drones on land belonging to the Countryside Regeneration Trust (CRT). It aims to ensure compliance with regulations, protect the privacy and safety of individuals, and minimise disturbances to agricultural activities and the environment.  

Scope  

This policy applies to individuals granted permission to use drones on land owned by the CRT. Without written permission, any drone flights taking off from, or landing on, CRT land, regardless of drone size, is not permitted.   

Policy  

All drones operated from CRT land must be registered and compliant with applicable UK aviation regulations and licensing requirements as outlined on the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) website: www.register-drones.caa.co.uk.  Where permission is granted, flights are subject to all legal restrictions and guidelines imposed by the CAA and may be further limited by the CRT to protect sensitive areas, staff, the public, wildlife, and the drone operator's own safety. Even where permission has been granted, if, in the opinion of any CRT staff, the drone is a nuisance to people or wildlife, then permission will be immediately revoked, and the operator must land the drone safely without argument.    

Drone operators are responsible for conducting pre-flight checks, ensuring proper maintenance of equipment, and adhering to safe operating practices. Flights must be conducted in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and best practices to minimise risk. Flights must be conducted within line of sight of the operator and at safe distances from people, livestock, buildings, and sensitive areas. Drone operators must respect the privacy of individuals and refrain from capturing images or recordings of people without their consent.  

Environmental Impact  

Drone operations must be conducted in a manner that minimises disturbances to wildlife, habitats, and agricultural activities. Operators must avoid flying drones over sensitive ecological areas or during critical stages of crop growth and livestock management. A variety of wildlife uses CRT land for breeding and many species are sensitive to disturbance. Some species are given additional protection by law that can result in prosecution if photographed in certain situations. Many birds also see drones as a threat and may abandon nests if alarmed by a drone.   

Anyone flying a drone over CRT land, but not taking off from or landing on CRT private land, is subject to normal UK laws and byelaws for drone operations. If a member of CRT staff deems the drone operation to be in contravention to these laws, the operator will be reported to the police. If a member of CRT staff deems the drone to be a nuisance to wildlife, we may approach the operator to politely explain what the problem is and ask them to fly elsewhere.  

Liability and Indemnification  

Drone operators assume full liability for any damages, injuries, or losses resulting from their drone operations on CRT land. Operators may be required to indemnify the landowner or management against any claims arising from their drone activities. Depending on the size/weight of the drone, operators can only fly if their drone is licensed through the CAA, and they can prove they have active drone insurance.    

Getting permission  

Permission should be sought from head office at:

The Countryside Regeneration Trust  
12 Bennell Court  
Comberton  
Cambridgeshire  
CB23 7EN  

Phone: 01223 651215  
(Phone lines are open Mon-Fri from 9am to 3pm)  
Email: [email protected]  

Head office will inform the relevant site manager, relevant conservation officer for the site or farm tenant.   

Permission must be sought each time a drone is flown.  

Review 

This policy is reviewed periodically and updated as necessary to reflect changes in regulations, best practices, or land management considerations.