Drones

Drones are becoming more popular, but make sure you obtain a permit when flying over Council land.

Apply to us for a permit

You need a permit to operate a radio controlled flying machine ("drone") over Council land.

We have a few conditions you need to comply with:

  • keep away from flying overhead large crowds
  • don't cause a nuisance to other park and reserve users
  • don't photograph children in children’s playgrounds or playing sport
  • comply with CAA rules, our city bylaws and our Reserve Management Plan rules
  • report any damage you cause to us on phone (04) 237 5089. 

When approved and authorised, we will issue a permit which must be available for inspection when requested by a Council Officer or a member of public.

Flying over the road corridor

If your flight path is mainly over Council road reserve corridor (eg for a road survey) please fill in this application form and send it to our Transport Corridor Access Team

Flying over parks and reserve land

If your flight path is mainly over Council park land, please fill in the application below (Apply Online) and press submit.

Please allow up to 10 working days for a response to your application, once submitted.

Fees and charges

Description Fee ($) incl GST (2025/26)
Drone permit – recreational activity (issued for a year) $51.00
Drone
permit - commercial activity (fee per activity)
$209.00
Activities
requiring authorisation (not a lease, licence or easement) - community group or not-for-profit
$51.00
Activities
requiring authorisation (not a lease, licence or easement) - commercial/private individual
$209.00
Application
for footprint lease, licence, or easement - community group or not-for-profit
$102.00
Application
for footprint lease, licence, or easement - commercial/private individual
$418.00
External specialist advice (note 11) Actual cost
Sportsfields (note 12)

Apply online

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Recommended pages:

See the following links for more information.