Legal implications of pesticide application by drone

This article was prepared with the assistance of Summer Students Makayla Ziegler and Madison Zimmer.
MLT Aikins contributes a monthly insight for the Western Producer’s “Ask a Lawyer” column. The Western Producer is a leading agriculture industry publication targeted for Western Canadian farmers and ranchers. It covers the latest developments in agricultural news, production, technology, markets, finance, livestock and rural lifestyles.
The use of drones in the agriculture industry continues to expand, and this year marked a significant – and exciting – step forward for Canadian farmers.
The Pest Control Products Act was recently amended through Bill C-30, introducing changes to the regulatory framework governing pest control products. While many of the amendments relate to the product approval process, some amendments also act as a clear effort to modernize Canada’s approach to pesticide application in the emerging world of agricultural technology.
In August’s article, MLT Aikins lawyer Laura Klemmer discusses these amendments, what they mean for drone spraying and drone operators and how to navigate this new regulatory landscape.
How we help
MLT Aikins helps farmers, producers, agribusinesses and agricultural service providers navigate the legal and regulatory requirements associated with agricultural drone operations.
The MLT Aikins Agribusiness and Food and Aviation, Drones and Advanced Air Mobility teams help farmers, producers, agribusinesses and agricultural service providers navigate the legal and regulatory requirements associated with using drones for crop protection and other agricultural applications.
Our multidisciplinary team can assist with:
- Transport Canada operating and certification requirements
- Federal and Provincial pesticide compliance
- Reviewing product labels and permitted application methods
- Contracts with drone operators and agricultural service providers
- Operational policies, procedures and risk management
- Insurance, liability and incident response
- Privacy, data ownership and cybersecurity considerations
- Developing or expanding an agricultural drone program
We provide practical advice that reflects both the regulatory framework and the operational realities of Canadian agriculture.
Read the complete article on the Western Producer.
Note: This article is of a general nature only and is not exhaustive of all possible legal rights or remedies. In addition, laws may change over time and should be interpreted only in the context of particular circumstances such that these materials are not intended to be relied upon or taken as legal advice or opinion. Readers should consult a legal professional for specific advice in any particular situation.



