With drones gaining popularity, the Town of Okotoks wants to make sure residents are taking the proper precautions before they take flight.

In Okotoks there's a 9 kilometre buffer zone around any aerodrome for the safety of air crafts, which in town would be the CFX-7 airport.

Scott Roberts, director of protective services for the Town of Okotoks, says it's important to consider whether a drone is being used for recreational or commercial purposes.

"When we look at recreational purposes we look at what is the weight, so if it weighs more than 35 kilograms then it's likely a license, a special flight operators certificate, would be required."

Drones are federally regulated under Transportation Canada. Information on obtaining the appropriate papers can be found by clicking here.

Roberts says there's a few basic rules to keep in mind.

"Maintain privacy of neighbours, don't be taking pictures or flying it around neighbours homes, don't fly higher than 90 meters in the air, ensure a drone is always in sight with your eyes and not through the use of a camera or a smart phone," he says. "Violation of any of the legislation could result in a fine for the operator of the drone."

According to Roberts, since drones are federally regulated fines would be issued by the RCMP and could cost as much as $3,000.

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