Guidance for Recreational use of Drones in Pembrokeshire

Last week Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum facilitated a meeting which looked at drawing up a guidance for recreational use of drones in Pembrokeshire. PCF brought together the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Pembrokeshire County Council, Port of Milford Haven, National Trust, Natural Resources Wales, RSPB, Wildlife Trust and the Pembrokeshire Biodiversity Partnership to discuss the use of drones in Pembrokeshire skies. Drone operators Let’s Inspire Media and Sky Cam Wales were also invited along to provide their input.

Pembrokeshire has some of the most unspoilt and spectacular scenery in the UK. It is an area rich in wildlife with internationally and nationally important habitats and species. The National Park attracts thousands of visitors every year to enjoy a wide range of recreation and leisure activities based around the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area.

Because of this, a Drone Code has been drawn up which will allow users to have fun flying their drones without breaking the law, harming important wildlife or impacting on the experience of other park users.

The Code will be finalised by the National Park Authority and promoted widely to anyone with an interest in drones. Similar to the Pembrokeshire Marine Code developed by PCF, the Drone Code will be a voluntary guidance, although it is important to note that recreational drone users will have to seek land owner’s permission before flying.

Once finalised the Code will be reviewed annually.

For more information on flying drones, visit the Civil Aviation Authority’s website here.