Drone Rules for Cheddar Reservoir

Landowner Policy & Site Rules

• Drone operations—including launching, landing, or operating on the ground—are strictly prohibited across the Cheddar Reservoir site without formal authorization.
• The reservoir grounds, walkways, and operational perimeters are private property managed by Bristol Water.
• Operating a drone from the ground here without explicit prior consent from the utility company or site management constitutes trespassing on private utility land.

Strategic Priority & Infrastructure

• Cheddar Reservoir is a critical utility asset responsible for regional water storage and supply networks across Somerset.
• Due to the sensitive nature of open public-access drinking water infrastructure and operational safety, the ground perimeters are monitored to protect physical assets from unauthorized interference.

Operational Security Protocols

• The site perimeter and the multi-use circular path are subjected to routine checking by Bristol Water staff, local wardens, and affiliated club authorities (e.g., Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club).
• Any unauthorized drone operators identified operating from the ground will be approached, instructed to safely ground their aircraft immediately, and required to cease operations on the property.
• Safety infractions or persistent non-compliance over public footpaths will be reported to local water authorities or law enforcement.

Permissions & Exceptions

• Ground permissions are entirely unavailable for all recreational, hobbyist, or casual drone flyers.
• Exceptions are strictly reserved for necessary utility inspections, commercial surveys, or authorized structural engineering contractors.
• Professional pilots requiring access must contact Bristol Water directly to secure formal written permission, provide a comprehensive CAA operational authorization, and submit a risk assessment alongside valid commercial public liability insurance.