I did some digging to find the regulations. A link is posted below so you can get them direct from Transport Canada.
So if you decide to order a drone and it gets held in Customs and you have to ransom it, take a copy of the regulations in case they want to question your knowledge of the rules. Customs inspectors have the right to refuse ANY import of ANY goods into Canada, and it's pretty much the same in any country.
The bottom line is that you can fly drones in Canada for recreation and you don't need a license. The high-end drones that are flown commercially require a pilots license for the operator.
So here are the main points:
Rules for recreational drones
To fly a recreational drone (or model aircraft), you must follow the safety rules in the Interim Order Respecting the Use of Model Aircraft.
Review these rules before flying a drone for fun, if the drone weighs over 250 g and under 35 kg. you can fly it. If your drone is 250 g or less, read our tips for flying safe.
Following the safety rules helps keep people, aircraft, and property safe. If you fly where you are not allowed or you break the rules below, you could be fined up to $3,000.
Link to the rules: Transport Canada Web Link
Fly your drone:
- below 90 m above the ground
- at least 30 m away from vehicles, vessels and the public (if your drone weighs over 250 g and up to 1 kg)
- at least 76 m away from vehicles, vessels and the public (if your drone weighs over 1 kg and up to 35 kg)
- at least 5.6 km away from aerodromes (any airport, seaplane base or area where aircraft take off and land)
- at least 1.9 km away from heliports or aerodromes used by helicopters only
- outside of controlled or restricted airspace
- at least 9 km away from a natural hazard or disaster area
- away from areas where its use could interfere with police or first responders
- during the day and not in clouds
- within your sight at all times
- within 500 m of yourself
- only if clearly marked with your name, address and telephone number
You are exempt from these rules if you are at a field or event approved by the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada.
Happy Flights!