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Drones and UAV 

Flying a drone seems like an easy and fun way to take pictures of houses for real estate agents or to record different shots for your own business. However, no one ever thinks about the dangers while flying. For example, what happens if you crash it on a power grid that would cost millions to repair?

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RCMP handing a fine to drone owner


Drone Rules in Canada

In Canada, operating a drone requires obtaining a drone license, following specific regulations set by Transport Canada, including restrictions on flying, and failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties. Transport Canada has provided a flow chart to navigate requirements to ensure proper operation. You can find this information on their website.
Transport Canada

Drone License Canada and Rules

What are the rules and regulations for operating a drone in Canada?

In Canada, the rules and regulations for operating a drone are established by Transport Canada. These regulations include guidelines on where and how drones can be flown, as well as requirements for drone operators to ensure safety and privacy. Adhering to these rules is crucial to avoid fines and legal consequences.

Do I need a license to fly a drone in Canada?

Yes, in Canada, you need to obtain a drone license, known as a Pilot Certificate - Basic Operations, to fly a drone that weighs 250 grams or more. This certificate ensures that drone operators have the necessary knowledge and understanding of the rules and regulations to operate drones safely and responsibly.

How can I obtain a drone license in Canada?

To obtain a drone license in Canada, you must meet certain requirements and follow these steps:
  1. Pass the online exam: You need to pass an online exam called the Basic Operations Exam. This exam tests your knowledge of drone regulations, safety practices, and airspace rules.

  2. Register your drone: Before taking the exam, you must register your drone with Transport Canada and obtain a registration number, which needs to be displayed on your drone.

  3. Complete a self-declaration: Once you pass the exam, you will need to complete a self-declaration to confirm that you meet the medical and visual acuity requirements.

  4. Obtain the Pilot Certificate: After successfully completing the exam and self-declaration, you will receive the Pilot Certificate - Basic Operations, which serves as your drone license.

What are the restrictions on flying drones in Canada?

When flying a drone in Canada, certain restrictions must be followed. Some common restrictions include:
  1. Fly within visual line-of-sight: You must keep your drone within your line of sight at all times during the flight.

  2. Respect airspace restrictions: Drones are prohibited from flying near airports, heliports, and other controlled airspace areas without prior authorization.

  3. Maintain a safe distance: Drones must be kept a certain distance away from people, vehicles, and buildings, ensuring the safety of individuals and property.

  4. Avoid flying at night or in certain weather conditions: Flying a drone at night or in low-visibility conditions is generally prohibited unless you have special permission.

What are the penalties for violating drone regulations in Canada?

Violating drone regulations in Canada can result in penalties and legal consequences. The penalties can include fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the severity of the violation. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations and operate your drone responsibly to avoid such penalties.

Are drones allowed to be flown in national parks?

The regulations regarding drone flights in national parks vary depending on the specific park and its governing authority. However, drones are generally prohibited or tightly regulated in most national parks to protect wildlife, preserve the park's natural environment, and ensure visitor safety.

Why are drones restricted in national parks?

Drones are restricted in national parks for several reasons. Firstly, the noise and presence of drones can disturb wildlife, causing stress and disrupting their natural behaviors. Secondly, the tranquility and serenity of the park experience can be disrupted by the buzzing sounds and visual presence of drones. Lastly, there are safety concerns, as drones can pose a risk to visitors, wildlife, and park infrastructure if not operated responsibly.

Are there any exceptions or permits available for flying drones in national parks?

Some national parks may have exceptions or permits available for flying drones in certain circumstances, but these are typically limited and require special permission. Exceptions may be granted for scientific research, search and rescue operations, or other specific purposes deemed necessary and authorized by the park authorities. However, obtaining these permits often involves a rigorous application process and adherence to strict guidelines.

What are the potential consequences of flying a drone in a national park without permission?

Flying a drone in a national park without proper permission can have various consequences. These may include fines, confiscation of the drone, legal penalties, and even being banned from entering the park in the future. It is important to respect the regulations and guidelines set by the national park authorities to preserve the park's natural beauty and protect its ecosystem.

How can I find out the specific drone regulations for a particular national park?

To find out the specific drone regulations for a particular national park, it is advisable to visit the official website or contact the park authority directly. National park websites often provide information on drone restrictions, permit requirements, and any exceptions or special provisions that may be in place. It is crucial to research and understand the specific rules for each park before considering flying a drone within its boundaries.

Check out Canada National Park website about drones.

Drone releasing bubble with kids chasing it


Personal Drone

Personal drones come in different sizes and models, ranging from compact quadcopters to more advanced and specialized drones. These drones are equipped with various features allowing users to capture aerial footage, perform aerial photography, or simply enjoy recreational flying. They are typically powered by batteries and controlled through a remote controller or smartphone app. 

Unleash Your Aerial Adventure: Exploring the World with Personal Drones

While personal drones offer exciting opportunities for aerial exploration and creative expression, it is essential to adhere to local regulations, respect privacy, and operate them responsibly to ensure safety and avoid potential legal issues.

Due to their aerial nature, the chances are that your current insurance does not cover them. Therefore, they must have protection from a particular aviation policy .

With more and more people choosing to operate and fly them, the industry quickly became regulated all over North America, for a good reason, both for commercial and hobby use. US Federal Aviation Administration has estimated over 1.6 million registered as of July 2020. A large portion of 73% was designated for recreational purposes. These numbers exclude the smaller size anyone could buy from Amazon.


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Does Homeowner's Insurance cover drones?

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), your home insurance policy's liability component can kick in if you or a family member end up in a lawsuit after flying a drone for recreational. Your policy may also include no-fault medical coverage to protect you against losses if your aircraft damages you or someone on your property, but these coverages are very limited.
A homeowner's policy can also provide coverage if someone steals your aircraft from your property. Ensure you have proper homeowner's coverage to accommodate it and the additional risk of flying one. The III suggests making sure your liability coverage is adequate if you want to protect your financial assets when flying one. However, when you are flying for profit or commercially, this would not be covered.

One day drone insurance

With Drone Insurance, you can protect your drone with just one simple policy with a click of a button. The policy covers any risk that comes your way, from damage and a potential lawsuit when you need them. On-demand Drone Insurance is now available for a one-time fee when you need them.

Do I Need Drone Insurance in Canada?

Flying a drone exposes consumers to many liabilities, especially true for users with little experience. For example, your aircraft could malfunction and crash into someone's property, causing damage to their home or car and causing a power dispute with million-dollar damage for businesses. For that reason, many experts suggest purchasing liability insurance coverage at the bare minimum—even if you only fly a drone for fun.

More expensive aircrafts may also require coverage for physical damage. In addition, you may want to consider coverage for personal loss, which could help you if yours is stolen from you.

How Much Does Drone Insurance in Canada Cost?

The cost of drone insurance in Canada can vary depending on various factors. These include the type of drone you have, the coverage you select, the amount of liability coverage you need, and whether you are using one for recreational or commercial purposes. However, annual policies usually start at around $500.

How do We choose the companies that offer the Best in Canada?

We compared the top companies that offer drone insurance in Canada to find providers with highly-rated products that can protect against damage, theft, liability, etc. In addition, we looked for companies that offer the broadest coverage possible, either on a national or international scale. We also compared companies that provide this type of insurance in Canada regarding the add-on coverage options and whether they let you get a free quote online. Finally, drone insurance in Canada providers with mobile apps and updated online features were also given preference.

Canada Drone Insurance

What Is Drones Insurance?

The word "drone" describes an aircraft device with no crew. Liability insurance protects the pilot and the aircraft owner against damage, accidental injury, and more claims. While buying this for commercial purchases seems like a no-brainer, many enthusiasts also buy recreational use coverage. It will give them peace of mind to have fun flying without worrying about hurting someone or damaging someone's property.

Is drone insurance required?

Drone insurance is a legal requirement in many countries. It is because of the risks that come with flying a drone. The law requires that a commercial drone operator hold a liability insurance policy. In some states, a private pilot is also required to have a liability insurance policy. Some countries' laws have made it mandatory for commercial drone operators to carry liability insurance. It is due to a growing number of drone incidents that could result in injury or property damage. In addition to the potential legal consequences, drone accidents can be expensive. In some cases, a business may be required to purchase insurance for a drone

Why do you need drone insurance?

Drone insurance is a relatively new concept. However, it's growing rapidly in popularity. The reason why this is happening is that drones have become a very popular hobby and recreational activity. It's now possible to buy a drone for less than $100 and fly it in public parks and even the city. If you want to take your drone flying beyond the borders of your property, you'll need to have a drone insurance policy. The main reason why people need drone insurance is if their drone crashes or gets lost.

When do you need drone insurance?

The simple answer to this question is, "when you have a lot to lose the moment you decide to fly your drone". Drones have become integral to our daily lives, and many people use them for fun, work, and commercial purposes. When using the drone for recreation, such as photographing the landscape and wildlife as a hobby, there is no requirement by law to have insurance. However, it will be wise to have them just in case of any liability that would cost dearly. With the rise of the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ quadcopter and other similar models, more and more people are taking to the skies to capture stunning aerial photos and videos as hobby. But when it is used mainly for commercial with the intention of profit-making, it is important that you be aware of the laws and regulations. There are laws concerning drone regulation, licensing, and the insurance you will need to purchase.

Why Is Drones Insurance Important in Canada?

Given that drones are flying objects and deemed to lose control resulting in crashing someone's property and causing liability claims, the owner and pilots may be interested in getting insurance in Canada to prevent the unfortunate event of an accident. Some may argue that home insurance would somehow cover some damage on or nearby one's property. However, this type of personal insurance will not cover commercial use (i.e. charging fees for taking videos overhead of other people's property). In addition, the personal insurer has no obligation to cover you when you use the UAV aircraft for financial gain.
Based on the number of drone accidents, owners and pilots are strongly encouraged to protect themselves by getting liability insurance in Canada. Also, consider covering the investment If the equipment is of high value.

Best drone insurance

When choosing the best drone insurance for your specific needs, you must compare your needs. It would help if you had someone with markets to the most comprehensive coverage options or someone who understands the specific nature of the business. Some of the things to consider include:

- higher limit,
- flexibility,
- business specific needs for commercial drone,
- wedding and events

Allowing you to tailor your policy to your unique needs. Simply put, no one size fits all in everyone's insurance needs.
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drones scanning for leak pipe


Commercial Drone

With specifically designed and utilized for commercial purposes, these commercial drones offering a wide range of applications and benefits. From aerial photography and videography to surveying, agriculture, and delivery services, commercial drones are transforming the way businesses operate. 

Unleashing the Skies: The Power and Promise of Commercial Drones

When operating a commercial drone, it is crucial to address challenges related to safety, privacy, and regulatory frameworks. Implementing robust regulations, developing standardized protocols, and ensuring responsible drone operations will be essential to maximize the potential benefits of commercial drones while maintaining public trust and safety.

What options of Commercial Drones are available for Small and Medium Size business?

The Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) coverage is a highly specialized insurance product that caters specifically to businesses or personal use. The product is in growing demand and covering a gap in non-specialty markets for this. It will help address market demand.

Commercial businesses interested in adding this in Canada to their coverage can contact us about options available. Transport Canada likely requires anyone using the aircraft for commercial or research purposes to carry liability insurance.

Current Drone solutions

When flying recreationally in Canada, it is recommended to have liability drone insurance in Canada. Should your UAV fall out of the sky and cause damage to people or property, you will want to ensure you are covered.

When flying commercially, you will typically require UAV or drone insurance in Canada for these flights (please check regulations in your area). However, general usage such as flying over power generation, mining, construction, photographers, or videographers for real estate agencies or their clients, is usually covered under the commercial use policy.

Common Repairs on DJI Drones and Their Costs?

In the event of a pilot's worst nightmare, such as a crashed aircraft, you have the following options.
- Get it repaired if salvageable.
- List on trade sites such as DroneTrader.com as parts and salvage.

So, what kind of costs should you expect if you need to repair your DJI Inspire or fix up your Mavic Pro?

The most common out-of-warranty repair costs so you can have a little better idea of what kind of costs you can expect. Please note that these are DJI part prices; your local dealer may sell for a different price. Also, if you have DJI Care Refresh, these prices should be significantly reduced or eliminated.

What are the options available for Business Drone insurance?

A comprehensive drone business insurance package should have all the necessary coverages.

The first one is CGL or Commercial General Liability. It is the basic kind of liability insurance that covers general liability.

Drone property or equipment insurance for business should cover drones, batteries, telematics, flight controllers, cameras, memory cards and other accessories used for flying.

If you're a newbie in the industry, the cost of liability insurance may be higher. A liability insurance policy protects you from claims from various sources, including negligence, defamation, and intentional torts. A business is exposed to risks like claims of personal injuries, damage to someone else's property, loss of the drone, and claims from injured individuals while operating the drone. It is important to note that a UAV may be used in commercial activities as long as the drone operator is insured. For instance, a business drone operator will need a liability policy to protect from accidentally hitting a person with a drone resulting in injury or death.

Insurance for drone photography business

A drone photographer can get started in this exciting industry and consider purchasing both policies or having them combined:

a) General liability insurance

b) UAV liability.

This insurance policy protects you from claims from injury to customers or damage to their property. A general liability insurance policy is a type of commercial liability insurance policy that insures you against claims coming from various sources, including negligence, defamation, and intentional torts. For the case of flying a drone, there have been legal lawsuits over "intrusion of privacy" when you need to prove in court that it wasn't intentional.

How much is commercial drone insurance?

A drone, or an un-manned aerial vehicle (UAV), is an aircraft without a human pilot on board. Most drones are made of plastic and metal and can be flown using a controller with a screen and joystick. They are commonly used for photography, filming, and surveying. Many different types of drones are available, ranging from fixed-wing and multirotor designs to flying cars and blimps. Drones are often used in agriculture, engineering, law enforcement, the military, search and rescue, and scientific research.

The cost of commercial drone insurance varies depending on its risk. From a standard realtor video flying through the property for sales to search and rescue in a forest or crude oil pipe leak surveying and the cost of the drone. The premium varies from 300 a year to over a few thousand. You can click on the following quote request form and discuss the insurance premium with us.

Drone for insurance

According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), Companies already use drones to monitor forest fires and floods. In addition, insurance companies are using drones to inspect properties for damages caused by floods, storms, wind and other disasters. Some insurers use drones to take photos and videos of their buildings and facilities for underwriting. Many insurance companies are buying these drones for aerial imaging to evaluate their buildings' condition.

Should you need crash replacement insurance, you may want to consider manufacturer-based coverage options such as the DJI Care Refresh program. Still, we provide you with the best liability coverage for recreational and commercial use insurance.

Are there any specific regulations or requirements for obtaining drone insurance in Canada?

Yes, there are specific regulations and requirements for obtaining drone insurance in Canada. Transport Canada mandates that all commercial drone operators carry liability insurance with a minimum coverage limit. The minimum liability coverage limit depends on the weight category of the drone. For drones weighing less than 250 grams, liability insurance is not mandatory. However, for drones weighing 250 grams or more, liability coverage ranging from $100,000 to $1 million is required, depending on the drone's weight and where it will be operated.

What types of coverage are typically included in a drone insurance policy in Canada?

A standard drone insurance policy in Canada usually includes the following types of coverage:
  1. Liability Coverage: This covers bodily injury or property damage caused by the drone operations, including third-party liabilities.
  2. Hull Coverage: This covers damages to the drone itself, including repairs or replacement in case of accidents, theft, or vandalism.
  3. Payload Coverage: This covers the payload or equipment attached to the drone, such as cameras or sensors, against damage, loss, or theft.
  4. Personal Injury Coverage: This covers privacy violations, defamation claims, or other personal injury claims arising from drone operations.
  5. Non-Owned Coverage: This covers liability when operating drones that are not owned by the insured but are under their control, such as rented or borrowed drones.

How much does drone insurance typically cost in Canada? 

The cost of drone insurance in Canada varies depending on various factors, including the type of drone, the coverage limits, the operator's experience, and the intended use of the drone. Generally, drone insurance premiums can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per year. Insurers consider the risks associated with the drone's operations, such as the location of flights, the purpose of the drone (commercial or recreational), and the operator's safety record, to determine the cost of the insurance policy.
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group of drones fly over city scanning


Future Drones

Drone technology is poised to advance even further, opening up new possibilities and applications. With ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence, automation, and connectivity, drones are expected to become more intelligent, efficient, and capable. They will likely possess enhanced obstacle detection and avoidance systems, longer flight times, improved payload capacities, and increased autonomy.

The Soaring Future of Revolutionary Drones Technology

Future drone technology is expected to impact various sectors, including transportation, logistics, emergency services, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring. Drones can streamline processes, reduce costs, and improve safety in these industries by providing faster and more accurate data collection, surveillance, and delivery capabilities.

Moreover, emerging concepts like drone swarms and autonomous drone systems hold the potential to revolutionize industries further. Drone swarms can work together collaboratively, performing complex tasks with increased efficiency and scalability. Autonomous drones, equipped with advanced algorithms and machine learning capabilities, can make independent decisions and adapt to dynamic environments.

What is drone delivery?

The need for efficient delivery systems will only increase as the world becomes more reliant on technology. If you're like many companies, you've probably been struggling to find a way to deliver goods and services to customers efficiently. While it's possible to use trucks and cars to ship items, these methods are expensive and inefficient. In the past, companies have relied on traditional delivery methods, such as mail and courier services. Unfortunately, these methods are time-consuming and require a lot of human labour. However, with the increasing demand for drone delivery, companies are now looking at this technology as a viable option for delivering goods and services.

Will drone delivery work?

The world of e-commerce is changing fast, and with it comes many new opportunities. In the future, the business will use drones to deliver parcels, packages, and other items. Drones have been around for a while, but they have become a lot more affordable and accessible in recent years. And as we know, the technology always seems to be advancing at an ever-increasing rate. These deliveries will be made by remote-controlled drones that operators can control from a distance. Drones can fly in and out of buildings and navigate the roads around them.

Will drone delivery take off?

Drone delivery has the potential to revolutionize the way we send and receive goods. It could also make some of the biggest retail names look like dinosaurs. With the promise of "last mile" delivery becoming a reality, many Canadians have wondered when we might see this service hit the market. According to Echelon Capital Markets analyst Rob Goff, the answer is that we may already be seeing it. Canadian drone delivery startups have already started to ramp up their operations, with several companies launching in Canada over the past year

How would Autonomous and AI enabled drones influence Insurance?

The integration of artificial intelligence and autonomous capabilities in drones can enhance their operational efficiency and reduce the risk of human error. Insurance providers may consider these advancements as factors in determining premiums. Drones equipped with advanced AI systems and autonomous features may be viewed as lower risk, resulting in potentially lower insurance rates compared to manually operated drones.

How would Advance Sensors and Imaging technology influence drone Insurance?

Future drones may incorporate advanced sensors and imaging technologies, including LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), hyperspectral imaging, and high-resolution cameras. These sensors can provide detailed 3D mapping, precise measurements, and improved data collection for applications such as infrastructure inspection, agriculture, and environmental monitoring. In the insurance industry, more statistic means more accurate prediction for loss, hence reducing indemnity with more advance notification, maintenance and risk avoidance.

How would Extended Battery Life and Power Systems influence drone Insurance?

Longer flight times and improved power systems are crucial for expanding drone capabilities. Future advancements in battery technology, such as higher energy densities and faster charging, can significantly extend drone flight durations, enabling longer missions, increased productivity, and enhanced range. This could avoid sudden power loss resulting in drone crash.

How would improvement in Connectivity and Communication influence drone Insurance?

Integration with 5G networks can enable real-time data transmission, remote control, and seamless communication between drones and ground stations. This connectivity can enhance coordination between multiple drones, enable swarm intelligence, and support remote operations over long distances, while able to collect more data for statistical analysis. 

How would improvement in Sense and Avoid Technologies influence drone Insurance? 

Future drones may employ advanced sense and avoid technologies, such as radar, advanced computer vision, and onboard collision-avoidance systems. These technologies can enhance the safety of drone operations by enabling them to detect and avoid obstacles, including other aircraft, buildings, or even birds, reducing the risk of collisions, hence reducing claim.

How would improvement in Enhanced Payload Capacities influence drone Insurance? 

As drone technology evolves, payload capacities are expected to increase, allowing for the integration of more sophisticated equipment, such as improved cameras, multispectral sensors, or even robotic arms for payload manipulation. This expansion in payload capabilities can further expand the range of applications and tasks that drones can perform. It may introduce more uncertainty however due to more ability of the robotic add-on.

How would improvement in Swarming and Cooperative Behaviors influence drone Insurance?

Future drone systems may feature advanced swarm intelligence and cooperative behaviors. Multiple drones can work together, sharing information and coordinating tasks, leading to improved efficiency, scalability, and coordination in complex operations such as search and rescue, surveillance, or disaster response. 
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Think before you fly! A smash on the windshield may cost you. Get drone liability insurance to protect your asset and others from coming after you, starting from merely $20 a month.

Drone dangerously missed a departing flight