UK CAA Drone Code, Flyer ID and Operator ID rules, sub-250g drones and child photography ethics for families using consumer drones from DJI, Autel and similar.
Consumer drones from DJI, Autel and similar brands are increasingly used by families for hobby flying, sport recording and photography. UK rules are set by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and apply to anyone flying a drone or unmanned aircraft, including children. The framework hinges on the drone's weight (especially the sub-250g 'C0' category), Flyer ID and Operator ID registration with the CAA, and the Drone Code rules about distance from people, height and no-fly zones around airports and prisons. There are also data-protection rules to consider when filming children.
Operator ID Registration
register-drones.caa.co.uk
Anyone responsible for a drone of 250g or more, or a drone with a camera, must register and pay the annual Operator ID fee with the CAA. The Operator must be 18+, so a parent's ID covers a child flyer.
Flyer ID
register-drones.caa.co.uk
Anyone flying a drone over 250g, or any drone with a camera in the Open Category, needs a Flyer ID. The free online test covers the Drone Code and can be sat by children with parental support.
Geofencing and No-Fly Zones
Drone manufacturer app (e.g. DJI Fly) > Safety > GEO Zones
Most drones will refuse to take off or limit flight in CAA restricted areas such as airports and prisons. Leave these protections on for child flyers.
Camera Storage and Sharing
Drone app > Settings > Media; Memory card management
Children appearing in drone footage are still protected by UK GDPR. Review and edit clips before sharing on social media, and never share footage of other people's children without their parent's permission.