Health Canada Regulatory Proposal - Permitting Pesticide Application Using Drones
via Health Canada PMRA
Since 2023, Health Canada has worked closely with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, international partners, and other federal departments to assess the health and environmental risks associated with applying pesticides by Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS; commonly known as drones).
Scientific data evaluated during this assessment indicates that the risks associated with pesticide application using RPAS are not greater than—and in some cases may be lower than—those associated with conventional aerial application methods.
Based on this analysis, Health Canada is proposing a policy that would allow RPAS to be used for all pest control products currently approved for conventional aerial application, without requiring amendments to existing product labels.
This policy would also support innovation and align Canada with other jurisdictions, such as Australia, that already permit the use of aerial drones for pesticides authorized for aerial application. In addition, it will allow for continued collaboration with provinces and territories, international regulators, and key federal partners (including Transport Canada) to advance regulatory science while maintaining strong health and environmental protection.
Stakeholders interested in pesticide application by RPAS must continue to comply with all applicable federal and provincial/territorial legislation, including: holding a valid RPAS pilot certificate issued by Transport Canada, and completing all required training or certification related to aerial drone pesticide application. We also encourage you to consult your provincial or territorial authority for information on local training, certification requirements, and their current availability.