The Short Version
Drones under 250g are exempt from most Transport Canada registration and certification requirements. You don't need to register, get a pilot certificate, or display a registration number.
Rules That Still Apply
Even without registration, you are still bound by basic safety and airspace rules:
You must not:
- • Fly near airports or heliports without authorization
- • Fly in restricted or controlled airspace
- • Fly higher than 122m (400 ft) AGL
- • Fly over emergency scenes or forest fires
- • Fly in a way that endangers people or aircraft
You should:
- • Check airspace restrictions before every flight
- • Maintain visual line of sight
- • Check municipal bylaws — some parks restrict drones
- • Fly responsibly near people and property
The 250-Gram Weight Trap
The exemption is based on weight at takeoff, including everything attached. Things that can push a sub-250g drone over:
- ⚠️Prop guards (DJI Mini guards add ~20–30g)
- ⚠️Extended or third-party high-capacity batteries
- ⚠️Camera upgrades or aftermarket gimbals
- ⚠️Payload attachments (lights, speakers, delivery mechanisms)
- ⚠️Wraps, skins, or protective cases that stay on during flight
- ⚠️GPS trackers or AirTags mounted to the frame
Example: A DJI Mini 4 Pro weighs 249g. Add prop guards (~25g) → 274g. That pushes it into the 250g+ category = registration, pilot certificate, and label all required.
If in doubt, weigh your drone at takeoff weight. A kitchen scale accurate to 1g is enough.
Popular Sub-250g Drones
| Model | Weight | Under 250g? | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| DJI Mini 4 Pro | 249g | Yes* | Prop guards push it over |
| DJI Mini 3 | 248g | Yes* | |
| DJI Mini 3 Pro | 249g | Yes* | Barely — accessories can push over |
| DJI Mini 2 SE | 246g | Yes* | |
| Autel EVO Nano | 249g | Yes* | Accessories can push over |
| Autel EVO Nano+ | 249g | Yes* | Accessories can push over |
| Holy Stone HS720 | 460g | No | Registration required |
| DJI Avata 2 | 377g | No | Registration required |
*In base configuration. Accessories may push over 250g. Weights approximate — always verify your specific unit.
Should You Add a Label Anyway?
You're not required to mark a sub-250g drone. But some operators add a contact decal (phone number or QR code) in case the drone is lost. Transport Canada recommends including your name and contact information on your drone.
This is purely optional. Not a compliance requirement — just practical risk management, especially when flying over water, forests, or unfamiliar areas.
Recovery & Contact Decals
From $12.99 CAD — Ships 1-2 business days
FAQ
Do I need a licence to fly a drone under 250g in Canada?
No. Transport Canada does not require a pilot certificate for drones under 250 grams. You must still follow basic safety and airspace rules.
Do I need to register a DJI Mini 4 Pro?
In its base configuration (249g), no. But if accessories bring the total weight to 250g or more, registration and a pilot certificate are required.
Can I fly a sub-250g drone anywhere?
No. You must still avoid restricted airspace, airports, emergency scenes, and areas where municipal bylaws prohibit drone flight. Check airspace before every flight.
Are there age restrictions for sub-250g drones?
Transport Canada does not specify a minimum age for sub-250g operators. Parental supervision and common sense apply.
If I add a GPS tracker, does my drone need registration?
If the tracker pushes total weight to 250g or more at takeoff, yes. Weigh the drone with the tracker attached.
Can I fly my sub-250g drone at night?
The sub-250g exemption doesn't explicitly restrict night flight, but maintaining visual line of sight is effectively impossible without adequate lighting. Exercise caution and check local rules.
Regulations last verified: April 2026
Sources: Transport Canada — Registering Your Drone
Checked quarterly against latest Transport Canada and MTO updates.
This guide is for general information based on current Transport Canada guidance. Rules can change. Compliance Lettering is not affiliated with Transport Canada, DJI, or Autel. Municipal bylaws may impose additional restrictions. For official rules, visit Transport Canada.