Drone Safety at Vivid Sydney: What You Need to Know

Submitted by Vivid Sydney

13 May 2024
Vivid Sydney Drone Show

Drone owners are reminded to leave their drones at home to ensure they’re not accidentally using them in an unauthorised way or impacting the safety and enjoyment of other attendees.

Strict Drone Safety Regulations

Drone safety is a top priority during Vivid Sydney. There will be strict enforcement of drone safety regulations throughout the festival to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

The No Drone Zones

Sydney’s skyline, particularly around the Harbour and North Sydney, is not a playground for drones. Areas such as McMahons Point, Kirribilli, Kurraba Point, Cremorne Point, and Curraghbeena Point are designated as no drone zones. This restriction is crucial due to the regular low-altitude flights of helicopters and seaplanes across these regions.

Legal Implications and Penalties 

It's important for drone enthusiasts to understand that flying a drone in restricted areas during Vivid Sydney without prior authorisation is illegal. Offenders not only risk hefty fines—up to $1,565 per offence—but also pose a significant safety hazard to other aircraft and spectators. Only those holding a remote pilot licence and operating under a certified operator are allowed to fly drones, and only with documented procedures and nighttime flying approvals.
 

Leave Your Drone at Home

For the casual drone operator, the message from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), New South Wales Police, and Destination NSW is clear: leave your drone at home. The allure of capturing the festival’s stunning visuals from above is overshadowed by the potential risks and legal consequences. Night-time and restricted airspace flying is off-limits for recreational drone users and those with operator accreditation.

Enforcement and Monitoring

To enforce these regulations, the New South Wales Police will deploy drone monitoring and detection technology throughout the festival. Their aim is to ensure there are no unauthorised flights and make sure there’s compliance with national safety laws.
 

Stay Informed and Safe

For those looking to learn more about drone operations during Vivid Sydney, CASA provides extensive resources, including a free CASA-verified drone safety app available through the Know Your Drone website. This platform is essential for all drone operators to understand the specific regulations and safety practices required for flying in restricted zones.

For additional details and frequently asked questions about drone use during Vivid Sydney, please visit the CASA Drone Safety Rules page.

Stay safe and enjoy Vivid Sydney from the ground – where the view is just as spectacular!

 

 

Share

Related Blogs
Explore the magic of Vivid Sydney 2025 at Tumbalong Park  Set in the heart of Darling Harbour, Tumbalong Park transforms into a glowing playground of Light, Music and Food across all 23 nights of Vivid Sydney. Whether you're here for the dazzling installations, the electric live music or the late-night eats, there’s magic around every corner – perfect for families, first dates or a night out with friends. Here’s your guide to what’s lighting up the park this winter. 
Read more
Spectacular views: where to stay to make the most of Vivid Sydney  Vivid Sydney is a spectacular annual festival of Light, Music, Ideas and Food. Every year, visitors from around the world converge on Sydney for 23 nights of culture, technology and creativity. Whether you’re planning a holiday or just looking for the ultimate staycation, here’s our guide to the best hotels to experience Vivid Sydney. 
Read more
Transform your Vivid Sydney 2025 experience by viewing the world’s most spectacular light displays from all sorts of different angles. Climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge or cruise the harbour, devour the glittering views from harbourside bars and restaurants or discover arresting vistas from lesser-known landmarks – here are some of the many ways you can enjoy a new perspective on Sydney’s annual festival of light. 
Read more