Flying drones on campus

If you want to fly a drone at any UQ site for commercial or research purposes, you need to get approval from UQ. You must also hold any certification or licences required by CASA.

How to apply for approval

You should complete all steps in the application process at least 2 weeks before you plan to fly.

Step 1: Notify CASA

Notify CASA that you intend to operate a drone at a UQ site.

To meet regulatory requirements, you’re required to notify CASA at least 5 business days before the flight. 

Step 2: Apply for approval from UQ

Submit a request to the UQ Security Events Officer on seo@pf.uq.edu.au and include the following:

• Details on your intent to take photos or video, include the time, location and other details on this form
• your proposed flight date, time and location
• a flight path plan
• your drone operator’s CASA aviation reference number (ARN) operator details
• confirmation that you have notified CASA of your intended flight by the required deadline
• a risk assessment – you can complete this in the UQSafe-Risk system or supply a document showing you have assessed the risks
• proof that you have Public Liability insurance cover of at least $20 million
• a signed conditions of use disclaimer (PDF, 296.1 KB).

For advice on risk management, contact:

• your local Health, Safety and Wellness Manager or Work Health and Safety Coordinator, or
• UQ’s Health, Safety and Wellness Division.

If your application is approved

If your application is approved, you must comply with:

• CASA rules and requirements for drone flights
• all directions from UQ.

While flying on UQ land you must provide a safety officer who is responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations and safety requirements during the flight. The safety officer must ensure the drone operator does not fly over people, in a populated area or near an area affecting public safety.