A drone, or Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA), is an unmanned aircraft operated remotely. Drones can be used for recreational purposes, photography, surveying, or commercial activities.
Drones – also known as remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs), are becoming increasingly popular for recreation, photography, and commercial use. While they offer exciting opportunities, flying a drone comes with responsibilities, particularly when operating in public spaces or near other people.
In the Town of Mosman Park, drone use is guided by national aviation laws set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to protect public safety, privacy and amenity. Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is the government organisation that regulates drone use in Australia. If you own a drone, it is essential that you are familiar with CASA’s drone weight categories and requirements, the drone safety rules, and strictly adhere to their rules and regulations.
Whether you’re a hobbyist, a commercial operator, or just curious about drone activity in your neighbourhood, this guide is here to help you navigate the rules and fly responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No, you do not need the Town’s approval to operate and fly a drone within the Town of Mosman Park. However, CASA’s guidelines restrict drone use to certain areas and should be reviewed prior to the operation of a drone.
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No, the Town does not require payment.
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CASA provide a list of verified drone safety apps that use location-based maps that show where a drone can be safely flown and in compliance with aviation legislation. View CASA’s list of drone safety apps.
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The Town does not offer exclusive bookings for drone flying in public areas and cannot guarantee that the area you would like to fly the drone will be available.
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Yes, you may operate a drone on your own private property. However, you must still comply with CASA rules, including keeping a safe distance from other people (flying closer than 30 metres to people and flying over populous areas), not flying over neighbouring properties without permission and not flying your drone in a way that creates a hazard. Flying your drone over houses, backyards, or over roads may break these rules. If you believe you’ve seen someone breaking the rules, you can report it to CASA. More information: casa.gov.au/knowyourdrone
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No. CASA guidelines restrict personal and commercial drone usage to certain areas. For more information on these areas, please visit the CASA’s website. It should also be noted that parts of the Town of Mosman Park fall within the Development Control Area of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). Drones cannot be used in the Development Control Area, without approval from the DBCA. Please consult the Development Control Area map. Enquiries regarding drone use in the Development Control Area should be referred to the DBCA on 9219 9000 (8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday) or enquiries@dbca.wa.gov.au. Download the application form for drone use in the Development Control Area.
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Yes. A permit is required to take off or land a drone within the Swan Canning Development Control Area (DCA), which includes parts of Mosman Park near the river. Flying over the DCA is allowed only if the drone takes off and lands outside the area.
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No, it is not illegal, but you must follow all relevant CASA regulations. Commercial drone operators must hold a Remote Pilot Licence (RePL). If you intend to fly your drone for, or at work (commercially), there are extra rules you must follow. You will need a remote pilot licence (RePL) or fly in the excluded category (sub-2 kilogram or private landholder).
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Recreational drone users must follow standard CASA rules. Commercial operators require appropriate CASA certification and licences.
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Key rules under CASA regulations include:
- Keeping the drone within visual line-of-sight
- Flying only during daylight hours
- Maintaining at least 30 metres distance from other people
- Avoiding populous areas such as beaches, parks, or events
- Not flying within 5.5 km of a controlled airport
More information: gov.au/knowyourdrone
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As a drone operator, you must not:
- Fly your drone higher than 120 metres above ground level
- Fly over people in populated areas, including beaches, parks, events, or sports ovals
- Capture photos or video of people without their consent
- Fly at night or in conditions with poor visibility such as clouds or fog
- Operate near or interfere with areas where public safety is at risk or emergency operations are underway – including incidents like bushfires, car accidents or police investigations
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You must not film, photograph, or record individuals without their consent, especially on private property. Breaching someone’s privacy may lead to legal action under Australian privacy laws.
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Concerns about drone safety or privacy violations can be reported to CASA through their online portal.
For the most up-to-date information on drone rules and regulations, visit: Civil Aviation Safety Authority: casa.gov.au/knowyourdrone
Responsible drone use helps protect public safety, privacy, and our shared environment of Mosman Park.