Perth Drone Bylaws & Flight Zone Rules - WA

Technology and Data Western Australia 4 Minutes Read ยท published February 11, 2026 Flag of Western Australia

Perth, Western Australia requires drone operators to comply with national aviation law and any local council rules that affect parks, reserves and city-managed land. This guide summarises how city bylaws interact with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) drone regulations, where to get permits, who enforces the rules and the practical steps to operate legally in Perth. Check the City of Perth local laws for site-specific restrictions and contact the council for permit guidance via the official pages linked below. City of Perth local laws[1] and national flight rules are available from CASA. CASA drone rules[2]

Always check both CASA rules and council conditions before you fly.

Where local bylaws apply

Local bylaws typically restrict drone use on council-managed land such as parks, sporting grounds, public gardens and some waterfront reserves. The City of Perth publishes its local laws and site-specific conditions; some areas may require a permit for recreational or commercial aerial operations. City of Perth local laws[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Council and state rules can be enforced alongside national aviation law. Specific fine amounts, scales for first or repeat offences, and continuing offence penalties are not always published on the council local laws page and so are listed below as published or as "not specified on the cited page" where applicable.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited City of Perth page; consult the cited source for up-to-date figures. City of Perth local laws[1]
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence procedures are not specified on the cited council page; enforcement may involve infringement notices or prosecution under the relevant instrument.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: councils may issue directions, prohibition notices, or require removal of equipment; seizure or court action may occur under statutory powers where provided.
  • Enforcer and complaints: local rangers or community safety officers enforce local rules; to report or request information contact the City of Perth via its official contact page. City of Perth contact[3]
  • National enforcement: CASA enforces aviation safety and may prosecute unsafe drone operations under the Civil Aviation Act and associated instruments; consult CASA for aviation-specific sanctions. CASA drone rules[2]
If you receive a notice, act quickly to request a review using the contact details the notice provides.

Applications & Forms

Permits for aerial filming, commercial drone operations or drone use in restricted parks may be required. The City of Perth site lists local laws and contact points but does not consistently publish a single consolidated drone permit form on the same page; where a permit exists the council provides the application, fees and submission method on the relevant page or on request. City of Perth local laws[1]

Contact the council early if your drone use is for commercial filming or large events.

Common violations

  • Flying over crowds or within no-fly public events without approval.
  • Operating in prohibited council areas or during temporary bans.
  • Failing to obtain required permits for commercial aerial work.

Action steps

  • Check CASA aircraft rules and airspace limits before planning a flight. CASA drone rules[2]
  • If flying on city land, contact the City of Perth to confirm whether a permit or booking is required. City of Perth contact[3]
  • Report unsafe or unauthorised drone activity to the council via the official contact page or to emergency services if there is an immediate danger.

FAQ

Do I need to register my drone in Perth?
Registration depends on weight and use under national rules; check CASA for registration thresholds and the City of Perth for any local permit requirements.[2]
Can I fly a drone in Perth parks?
Some parks require a permit or are restricted; consult the City of Perth local laws and contact the council for site-specific rules.[1]
Who enforces drone rules in Perth?
Local rangers enforce council bylaws on city land and CASA enforces aviation safety; use the City of Perth contact for local complaints and CASA for aviation incidents.[3]
How do I appeal a council notice?
Appeal and review routes are set out in the notice or local law instrument; if not listed on the cited page, request review details from the City of Perth via its contact page.[1]

How-To

  1. Check CASA national drone rules and confirm whether your drone must be registered and insured. CASA drone rules[2]
  2. Identify the council land where you plan to fly and review the City of Perth local laws or contact the council for permit requirements. City of Perth local laws[1]
  3. If a permit is required, submit the application and any requested documents to the council; follow submission and payment instructions provided by the council.
  4. On the day, follow CASA operational limits (height, proximity to people and controlled airspace), carry your permit or evidence of approval and comply with any council conditions.
  5. If you receive a notice, follow the instructions on the notice and contact the issuing officer or the City of Perth for review information. City of Perth contact[3]

Key Takeaways

  • Follow both CASA rules and local council bylaws when flying in Perth.
  • Contact the City of Perth early for permits or site permissions.
  • Keep evidence of approvals and act promptly if issued a notice.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Perth - Local laws and documents
  2. [2] Civil Aviation Safety Authority - Drones
  3. [3] City of Perth - Contact us

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