🚁 Major Changes to Canadian Drone Regulations in 2025

Transport Canada has announced significant updates to drone regulations in 2025. The goal? To unlock the potential of medium-sized drones and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations—without always needing a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC).

Here’s a clear summary of what you need to know to get ready.

📅 Two-Phase Rollout

Date	What Happens
April 1, 2025	Launch of the new online exam for Level 1 complex operations, opening of applications for the RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC), fee updates, and new microdrone rules for public events
November 4, 2025	BVLOS, EVLOS, and Protected operations become authorized without an SFOC, if all conditions are met

🚨 Key Regulatory Updates

1. Low-Risk BVLOS – Level 1 Complex Operations

A new pilot certification allows low-risk BVLOS flights (Level 1 Complex Operations).Requirements:

• Be 18 years or older

• Pass the new online exam

• Complete 20 hours of ground school + a flight review

• Hold a valid RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC)

Operational conditions:

• Uncontrolled airspace

• Under 400 ft (122 m)

• At least 1 km away from populated areas

🔹 For small drones: flights allowed over sparsely populated areas🔹 For small or medium drones: at least 1 km from populated zones

2. Expanded Privileges for Advanced Pilot Certificate Holders

As of November 4, 2025, advanced certificate holders can now:

• Perform Protected Operations

• Conduct Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS) flights

• Operate medium-sized drones in VLOS

➡️ No new certificate needed, but pilots must stay current with the new regulations.

3. Protected Operations

These are drone flights near structures (e.g. buildings) and must meet these criteria:

• Stay > 30 m from non-participating people

• Fly ≤ 30 m above the structure

• Maintain ≥ 61 m horizontal distance from the structure

4. EVLOS – Extended Visual Line of Sight

EVLOS allows short-range flights where the drone is no longer in the pilot’s direct line of sight.Requirements:

• Uncontrolled airspace

• > 30 m from people

• Assisted by a qualified visual observer

• Within 2 NM of pilot, observer, and control station

5. VLOS with Medium-Sized Drones (25–150 kg)

To operate a medium drone in VLOS, operators must:

• Declare that the drone is safe and mission-capable

• Fly in:

  • Uncontrolled airspace (no ATC clearance needed)

  • Controlled airspace (requires ATC clearance)

🎤 Microdrones at Public Events

As of April 1, 2025, a SFOC will be required to fly microdrones at advertised public events (concerts, festivals, etc.).

💸 Updated Fees

Exams, Certificates & Declarations

Service	Fee
Level 1 Complex Ops Exam	$50
Level 1 Pilot Certificate	$125
Pre-validated Declarations	$1,200
RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC)	$125

SFOCs Based on Complexity

Complexity	Fee
Very Low	$20
Low	$75
Medium	$900
High	$2,000

Government agencies conducting emergency response are exempt from these fees.

Drone Registration

As of April 1, 2025, the registration fee increases to $10 per drone.

📖 Key Definitions

• Populated area: More than 5 people/km²

• Sparsely populated area: Between 5–25 people/km²

• Visual observer: Crew member helping maintain flight safety

• Advertised event: Public outdoor event (concert, festival, sports, etc.)

🛫 Final Thoughts

The year 2025 marks a major evolution in Canada’s drone landscape. These changes open the door to greater autonomy, advanced commercial operations, and broader use of BVLOS and larger drones.

Now’s the time to prepare—train your team, update your manuals, and align your procedures with the upcoming framework.

Need help navigating the changes or preparing your documentation?

📧 Contact us at info@highcloud.ca🌐 Visit www.highcloud.ca