As DroneDJ has sadly had occasion to note, the incidence of misguided pilots flying uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV) too close to wildlife has increased considerably around the globe in recent months. In an effort to turn that curve around on their watch, Canadian authorities are issuing stern reminders that laws prohibit disturbance or marine animal harassment by drones – and carry heavy fines for pilots who do.
BC intent on preventing harassment of marine animals by drones
Last week, the government’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) renewed warnings to residents and visitors to coastal British Columbia that it’s illegal to navigate drones close to marine mammals or otherwise engage in animal harassment. Violations, they note, can involve potential fines of up to $100,000 for first time offenders, and get stiffer from there. The pointed alerts come amid increased reports of UAV posing serious risks to sea creatures by navigating close to them. The…
