Filming with Drones.
Aerial filming
When looking to film in Essex using a drone it is important that you obtain the correct permissions.
Drones and octocopters may also be referred to as SUA (small, unmanned aircraft) UAV (unmanned aerial vehicles) UAS (unmanned aerial systems) or Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).
This page provides a non-exhaustive list of matters to consider and procedural steps required for the use of drones in Essex.
Read some helpful FAQs about filming with drones:
Do I need to Obtain Permission?
In advance of filming, you will need to ensure that you have:
- Permission from the owner or manager of the land used for take-off and landing.
- Permission from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or relevant Air Traffic Service or Aerodrome Operator.
- Control over the area you intend to use the drone within which includes any person or vehicles in the area.
What documentation do I need to film with a drone?
Before you undertake any ariel filming you will need to ensure you have copies of:
- CAA pilots licence for the correct type of drone
- Drone Insurance Certificate
- RAMS – Risk and Method Statement detailing the whole drone shoot.
- Traffic Management plan – Required if the shoot may interrupt highway traffic.
- Public Liability Insurance (minimum £10million+)
Where I can find further information about filming with drones?
You can find further information on filming with drones here from CAA: Drone Code
For further information you can visit the CAA Website or email CAA at UAVenquiries@caa.co.uk2.
How can I check if there are any restrictions where I want to film?
There are a number of restricted fly zones and commercial / private airfields operational in Essex. If you are planning to fly near these areas you should record this within your RAMS document along with any mitigation.
Via the CAA website you can access apps and software which will help you understand any restrictions on where you want to film such as Drone Assist.
What timescales do I need to work to for drone filming?
All applications to film using drones are treated on a case-by-case basis. As a result, notice periods can vary therefore for guidance purposes a minimum notice period for use of a drone that is perceived to have ‘no impact’ should be 5 working days (1 week) and for those that are likely to involve road closures 12 weeks. It is best practice to notify the Essex Film Office in all instances of commercial drone use even if the drone is to be used on private land and not overflying the highway or council-owned property.
In each case you will need to speak with the Essex Film Office well in advance of any planned filming with a drone.
Southend Pier
When filming with drones it is important that you understand the guidance around filming in public places
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has issued guidelines relating to the Data Protection Act regarding the use of drones for filming purposes. For more information, please visit ICO.
