Drone Sport UK – Event Safety Rules

Effective Date: 1st January 2025

At Drone Sport UK, safety and professionalism are the foundation of every event we run. Whether you’re an elite racer or flying your first Grand Prix heat, our goal is to deliver a well-organised, interference-free race experience that everyone can enjoy. These safety standards have been developed in collaboration with experienced pilots, technical advisors, and event partners to ensure consistency across all Drone Sport UK sanctioned races.

We’re building a community where respect for rules, equipment, and fellow racers is part of the culture — not just a box to tick. When every pilot follows the same clear framework, it not only protects people and property but also ensures the cleanest video signals, smoothest heats, and best possible flying conditions for all.

These rules apply to all events hosted under the Drone Sport UK banner. They are designed to be simple, easy to follow, and above all, effective. Whether you’re racing at a national showcase or a regional qualifier, you can expect the same high standards at every event.

Please take a few moments to read the rules carefully. If anything is unclear, speak to a member of the event team. We’re here to support you and to make sure your racing experience is safe, fair, and unforgettable.

1. VTX Channels & Power

Your VTX channel will be assigned prior to the event and published on the event page once entry closes (Typically that will be the Thursday at 11pm prior to the event commencing, or once the event entry has closed).
On race day do not power on your drone unless you are on the start line and ready to race in you specific heat, round and or final and are on your allocated VTX channel.
Never power on your drone without the race directors permission.
VTX power is strictly limited to 25mW. No exceptions.

2. Pilot Briefing

A mandatory pilot briefing will take place before racing begins.
All pilots must attend.
Racing will not commence until the briefing is complete.
Any pilot who misses the briefing must obtain express clearance from the Race Director before being allowed to compete.

3. Pilot Check-In

At check-in, you must present your drone(s) to Race Control with the following:

Props removed.
CAA Operator ID clearly visible.
Fail-safe configured (motors must stop on signal loss).
VTX set to the correct channel and power output.

4. Insurance

Proof of insurance is required.
We accept valid BMFA or FPVUK policies. (Please bring documentation on the day).

5. Pits & Power Use

The pit area (or pilot marquee) is strictly off-limits to the public.
No powered drones are permitted in the pit area while racing is active.
Any hover tests or power-ups must be cleared with the Race Director first.
All props must be removed if the Race Director gives you permission to power up in the pits.
Mains power will be available unless otherwise stated.
If using a personal generator, speak with staff before setup.
Keep clear footpaths between pit tables for fire safety compliance.

6. Flight Line Procedures

The flight line is separate from the pit area and housed in its own 6x3m gazebo.
Bring your own take-off block.
Only power your drone at the designated take-off tables.
You are allowed one arming check per race, but only after all pilots are behind the 2m safety line.
No further arming is allowed until the “Less than 5” call or Race Director’s start command.
Any breach of this rule will result in forfeiting the next heat.

7. Post-Flight Protocol

Land only in the designated landing area.
Unplug your drone before carrying it back to the pits.
Carrying a powered drone outside the flight line is not permitted.

8. Heat Management & Scoring

Timing is provided via LiveTime Scoring: www.livefpv.com
Spotters from the next heat will assist by calling “WRONG FLIGHT” and counting laps.
Each spotter will spot the pilot on the same video channel they have been allocated to race on (Example R1 will spot R1).

9. Flight Line Etiquette

Spotters should focus on lap counting and minimal communication.
Spotters may assist pilots with direction or obstacle calls only if asked.
Coaches are allowed at the flight line but must remain discrete and not distract other pilots.
The flight line must remain silent during active heats.
Only safety-related communication is permitted.
If you have crashed out please stay seated and remain quiet.
Do not celebrate, shout, or leave until the heat is over.

10. Key Safety Reminders

No powered drones outside of designated flying areas and/or allocated flying times.
Use only your assigned VTX channel.
Do not test or power up any drone or VTX equipment without Race Director approval.
Always land and unplug in the designated area.
Silence is mandatory on the flight line.

11. Our Commitment

These rules are here to make racing fun, fair, and interference-free for pilots, race control and spectators. Drone Sport UK is committed to creating safe, competitive environments that reflect the future of the sport.

If you encounter any issues, speak to a member of our team — we’re here to help.

If you have any questions, please contact us: events@dronesportuk.com