š Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have become increasingly popular in recent years for both recreational and commercial purposes. However, with this rise in drone use comes the need for regulations to ensure safety and privacy. In Tasmania, there are specific drone laws in place that all drone pilots must follow. In this blog post, we will discuss the drone laws in Tasmania (Launceston & Hobart, TAS) what you need to know before flying your drone.
Give a š at the end of this post & feel free to share your experience or any updates you might have in the Australia Drone Forum. Keep in mind that the content below is updated to the best of our knowledge & does not replace official sources & your research.
Tasmania (TAS) follows the common rules of the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). If you're looking for the unmanned aerial vehicle rules of Australia then click here.
As for a shortcut, no matter where in Tasmania, you should fly:
at a maximum altitude of 120 m above the ground.
away from private property, vehicles in movement, people or large crowds (including over beaches, stadiums or parks) & respect individuals' privacy.
at least 5.5 km away from airports (ATC ones) & give way to all other type of aircraft.
only during permitting weather & within your sight at all times.
away from areas where its use could interfere with police or first aid.
avoiding sensitive areas including government or military facilities.
But before anything, let's start with a little drone video to show how beautiful this corner of the world is (time to get some popcorn mate! šæš¬)
So where can I fly my drone in Tasmania (TAS)?
A short answer will be anywhere away from airports and national parks (unless authorisation). But thankfully there is a bit more info than this, thanks to these apps in cooperation with CASA to keep you up to date with punctual events so its probably good to keep this link handy with you.
ā These are also available in the Google Play Store & Apple Store for mobile use (makes sense as we not many of us fly with a desktop in their car trunk today š) Most main cities of Tasmania (TAS) are under strict regulations due to a heavy air traffic above or near them. But looking at the two most populated cities there are a few good news š
Drone Fly Map Hobart
In Hobart, the city's airspace is restricted by a few heliports but it remains reasonable. However be aware on the East side of Derwent River which is basically a no fly zone without permission and approvals ahead.
ā Sweet spots to fly your UAV around Hobart:
From Taroona all down the South West Derwent Riverbed.
From Moonah all up the North West Derwent Riverbed.
š If you're looking to get out of the city, consider renting out a campervan. We got ours from tasvanlife and absolutely loved it. Being off-grid their vans were able to charge our drones while travelling around Tasmania without having to stop in a campground š
Catching a plane to visit Tasmania? Get your fireproof lipo battery bags
Drone Fly Map Launceston
ā In Launceston, there is one heliport (The Glebe) that is close to city's CBD whikst the airport itself a little further out of town making the city a sweet spot to fly your drone.
Flying a drone in TAS in reserve lands, national parks & marine reserves
ā Flying your unmanned aerial vehicle in a national park comes under the competence of Parks & Wildlife Services of Tasmania. You will need to ask to the park's manager if its alright before flying above any national park in TAS. After all, these are sanctuaries for animals & the idea is to leave them in peace in these preserved environments š
There are exceptions for commercial and research flights which you will need to apply for an authorisation directly with the parks' authorities.
The list includes the famous ones such as:
Cradle Mountain National Park
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Freycinet National Park
Southwest National Park
Tasman National Park
& many more.., find a complete list here
Watch out for sea mammals! š³
Marine life in Tasmania (more particularly whales) is strictly looked after; you should fly your UAV (considered as a helicopter as hovering above) no closer than 500 m from any sea mammals in Tasmania (š¦ Sharks are not sea mammals btw š§) Further recommendations have been given such as avoiding to approach from the back or the front.
š” If flying your drone above water, its probably a good idea to get your camera a lens filter to avoid sunlight glare that will ruin your footage.
Visiting Tasmania? Need the best drone for it? Click here
Drone & Privacy Laws in TAS
CASA is pretty straightforward and transparent on this topic; they won't investigate any privacy concerns or claims as their job is restricted to aviation safety. The primary body in charge of privacy laws in TAS is the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner which in turn advises you to first complain to the organisation or agency causing you issues with a 30 days delay before escalating to them - find out more.
Once you got everything in order, you can start flying above Australia's awesome landscapes & create videos like this one:
š Travelling Further? Check out our Drone Rules World Map; country by country!
ā Please leave a comment or update Australia Drone Forum when you receive news and/or gain experience with your drone over Barcelona! Have fun and safe flight!
Disclaimer: Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information researched, we take no responsibility for any loss, harm or damage caused as a direct or indirect consequence of relying on this information. It is your responsibility to seek advice from qualified local & relevant authorities for needed information about local drone rules and regulations.
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Sources Tasvanlife
Other resources
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