Drone Rules for Kielder Water

Landowner Policy & Site Rules

• Drone operations—including launching, landing, or operating on the ground—are strictly prohibited across the Bewl Water site without explicit prior authorization.
• The reservoir estate, waterpark, and recreational shorelines are leased and managed by Bewl Events & Waterpark and South East Water. Management maintains a total ban on recreational drone flying.
• Operating an unmanned aircraft from the ground here without formal written consent constitutes trespassing on managed utility and recreational land.

Strategic Priority & Infrastructure

• Bewl Water is the largest stretch of open water in the South East, serving as a vital public water supply reservoir and a major destination for leisure activities, sailing, and family events.
• Ground rules are actively maintained to ensure visitor safety, protect the privacy of guests, and avoid disturbance to the local wildlife and active watersports users.

Operational Security Protocols

• Active land monitoring and routine patrols are carried out by on-site wardens and estate staff.
• Any unauthorized drone operators identified operating from the ground will be approached, instructed to safely land their aircraft immediately, and requested to leave the premises.
• Safety infractions or persistent non-compliance near busy public amenities or operational facilities will be reported directly to local authorities.

Permissions & Exceptions

• Ground permissions are entirely unavailable for all recreational, amateur, and hobbyist drone flyers.
• Exceptions are strictly reserved for commercial utility surveys, necessary structural inspections, or pre-approved professional media productions.
• Professional pilots requiring access must contact Bewl Water management directly well in advance to apply for formal written consent, submit a detailed flight plan, and provide proof of valid CAA operational authorization alongside comprehensive public liability insurance.