In the skies above Caledon this June, there’s one thing you won’t be seeing alongside the soaring golf balls at the prestigious RBC Canadian Open – drones.
Ontario Provincial Police have issued a firm reminder to drone enthusiasts and amateur aerial photographers that the airspace above TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley will be strictly off-limits during the tournament running from May 27 to June 2.
As someone who’s covered Toronto events for years, I’ve watched the proliferation of drone technology transform everything from real estate photography to wedding videos. But when it comes to major sporting events, the rules are increasingly clear-cut.
“It’s about both safety and security,” explained OPP Constable Ian Michel during our phone conversation yesterday. “Unauthorized drones pose significant risks to spectators, players, and can interfere with official broadcast operations.”
The tournament, which returns to the Greater Toronto Area after being held at Hamilton Golf and Country Club last year, is expected to draw massive crowds. Walking the grounds during last year’s practice rounds, I was struck by the sheer scale of infrastructure required for an event of this magnitude.
Transport Canada regulations already restrict drone operations near people and buildings without proper permits. The Canadian Open, with thousands of spectators packed onto the course, clearly falls under these restrictions. Violators could face fines up to $5,000 for individuals and $25,000 for corporations.
“We’re working closely with tournament officials to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience,” Michel added.
The professional drone operators contracted by the PGA Tour and broadcast partners have secured necessary authorizations through Transport Canada’s rigorous approval process. These operators undergo specialized training and carry comprehensive insurance coverage.
Brandon Watson, a Toronto-based commercial drone operator I interviewed for an earlier piece on aerial photography regulations, emphasized the complexity of these permissions. “Getting clearance to fly at major events involves multiple regulatory bodies, detailed flight plans, and demonstrating significant safety protocols,” Watson explained. “It’s not something casual operators can or should attempt.”
Last summer, I observed similar restrictions during the National Bank Open tennis tournament. Police utilized counter-drone technology to monitor the airspace, quickly identifying and addressing potential violations.
For golf enthusiasts worrying about missing those spectacular aerial shots of Osprey Valley’s challenging layout, fear not. Official broadcasts will feature plenty of sanctioned drone footage captured by the tournament’s media partners.
This year’s tournament marks a significant milestone as the first time the Canadian Open will be played at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley. The Caledon facility, located about an hour northwest of downtown Toronto, features three distinct 18-hole courses designed by Doug Carrick.
The Heathlands course, which will host the tournament, is known for its links-style design with rolling fairways and challenging bunkers. Having played the course myself last fall, I can attest to both its beauty and difficulty – particularly when the wind picks up across those exposed fairways.
For spectators planning to attend, tournament officials recommend reviewing all restricted items before arrival. Beyond drones, the list includes obvious items like weapons and alcohol, but also extends to selfie sticks and large bags.
The drone restrictions reflect broader security concerns that have become standard at major sporting events. Following my coverage of security preparations for last year’s Toronto Maple Leafs playoff run, it’s clear that event safety planning has evolved significantly in recent years.
“These measures might seem excessive to some, but they’ve become necessary components of modern event management,” noted Toronto-based security consultant Elena Mikhailov in our discussion about event safety protocols. “The goal is always to create an environment where everyone can focus entirely on enjoying the competition.”
As tournament week approaches, local authorities will increase patrols around the perimeter of TPC Toronto. Spectators noticing unauthorized drones are encouraged to report them immediately to security personnel.
For the drone enthusiasts among us, this serves as a reminder of the growing regulatory framework surrounding this technology. Transport Canada continues to refine its drone operation guidelines, balancing innovation with public safety concerns.
The RBC Canadian Open runs from May 27 to June 2, with championship rounds scheduled for the final weekend. Last year’s champion, Nick Taylor, made history as the first Canadian winner in 69 years with his dramatic playoff victory over Tommy Fleetwood.
As for those hoping to capture their own aerial footage of the tournament? You’ll just have to keep those drones grounded and enjoy the professional coverage instead.
