Say Goodbye to SFOCs—At Least Outside the City

Flying drones beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) used to be a bureaucratic nightmare for pilots. You had to apply for Special Flight Operations Certificates (SFOCs) each time. That meant delays, paperwork, and often, a dead end.

But if you’re operating in rural Canada, things are about to change. Big time.  Transport Canada is set to drop the SFOC requirement for routine BVLOS flights in specific low-risk rural areas in rules that come into effect on November 4, 2025. That means more freedom, less waiting, and a green light for real impact.

Specifically, the new rules apply to uncontrolled airspace where the population is fewer than 25 people per square kilometer.  Meaning wide open farmland, forests, mining zones, and oil and gas corridors just became prime airspace.

Who’s It For? 

This isn’t a free-for-all. The new rules apply to drone pilots with:

  • A Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operating certificate (tests started on April 1, 2025)
  • A Transport Canada-approved BVLOS safety assurance
  • Operations at or below 400 feet AGL
  • Flights away from populated areas and controlled airspace

So if you’re flying a fixed-wing drone to inspect a wheat field? You’re probably good to go.

Also Read: Canada Drone Pilots, Meet The 3 Ps Rule For BVLOS Flights

Farming Gets Smarter, Cheaper, and Faster

Forget guesswork and crop scouts with clipboards. Drones are giving farmers real-time data that changes everything. With BVLOS clearance in rural zones, drones can now:

  • Monitor crop health across thousands of acres
  • Detect pests and diseases early
  • Spot irrigation issues before they ruin yields
  • Track cattle over massive ranges

All this without human pilots trailing behind or waiting on approvals.  One drone pilot can now cover 10,000 acres in a single flight.

Environmental Work Just Got a Lifeline

Researchers and conservationists no longer have to wrestle with red tape when they want to watch caribou migrations in real time or identify illegal logging before it spreads. Now they can fly over forests, wetlands, and remote lakes for:

  • Wildlife tracking
  • Forest fire assessment
  • Tree canopy surveys
  • Water quality monitoring

Emergency Response Moves Quicker

When there’s a fire or flood, every second counts. With relaxed BVLOS rules, first responders can send drones ahead to:

  • Map flood zones in real time
  • Locate stranded people
  • Assess fire spread in forests
  • Deliver emergency supplies to cut-off communities

What This Means for You

If you’re a drone pilot working outside the city, this is your moment. Whether you’re in agriculture, conservation, or emergency services, you now have tools to do more—with less hassle. You’ve still got to fly safe. You still need approvals and safety protocols. But now, the path is clearer.

Also Read: Pay to Play? Guide to Canada’s 2025 Drone Fees (And Why It’s Not All Bad)

FAQs

Do I still need an SFOC for BVLOS flights in rural areas?
No, not if your operation meets the new criteria. You must have a valid RPAS certificate, a BVLOS safety assurance, and fly only in low-risk rural airspace.

Can I fly over small towns or villages without an SFOC?
No, the exemption only applies to areas well away from people and buildings. Urban or semi-urban flights still require traditional approvals.

What’s considered a “low-risk” area?
It’s anywhere that’s unpopulated, outside controlled airspace, and away from busy flight zones. Think fields, forests, ranchlands, and open wilderness.

What kind of drones qualify for these operations?
Only RPAS that meet Transport Canada’s safety and performance requirements. They must be equipped for BVLOS operations and pass the safety assurance process.

Is this permanent or just a trial?
This is a real rule change, not a pilot program. It’s part of Transport Canada’s long-term plan to support safe BVLOS flights in rural zones.

Can I fly over highways or power lines in rural zones?
Only if the area is still considered low-risk and you’ve assessed safety properly. Otherwise, you might need additional approvals.

How do I get the BVLOS safety assurance?
You’ll need to submit flight data, demonstrate reliability, and follow Transport Canada’s review process. It’s not instant, but it’s doable.

What if I lose connection with my drone during a BVLOS flight?
You must have a reliable fail-safe system. That includes return-to-home features and pre-programmed emergency procedures.

Are there penalties for flying without meeting these requirements?
Absolutely. If you fly BVLOS in rural zones without meeting the rules, you’re looking at fines, license suspension, or worse.

How long does it take to get BVLOS clearance under the new system?
Once your RPAS and safety assurance are in place, you’re good to go. No more waiting for a separate SFOC each time.