In Canada you can fly a drone for recreational purposes without any special permission as long as it is under 35kg and follows all of the guidelines set out by Transport Canada.
However, if you are using it for commercial or research reasons, then you are required by law to get a Special Flight Operations Certificate.
Additionally, the following is taken directly from the Transport Canada website:
Fly your drone:
below 90 m above the ground
at least 30 m away from vehicles, vessels and the public (if your drone weighs over 250 g and up to 1 kg)
at least 75 m away from vehicles, vessels and the public (if your drone weighs over 1 kg and up to 35 kg)
at least 5.5 km away from aerodromes (any airport, seaplane base or area where aircraft take off and land)
at least 1.8 km away from heliports or aerodromes used by helicopters only
outside of controlled or restricted airspace
at least 9 km away from a natural hazard or disaster area
away from areas where its use could interfere with police or first responders
during the day and not in clouds
within your sight at all times
within 500 m of yourself
only if clearly marked with your name, address and telephone number
You are exempt from these rules if you are at a field or event approved by the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada.
Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines totalling a maximum of $3000.
For more information on illegal drone operation click here.
