Drone Rules for Arlington Reservoir

Landowner Policy & Site Rules

• Drone operations—including launching, landing, or operating on the ground—are strictly prohibited across the Arlington Reservoir estate without explicit prior authorization.
• The site is a key water supply asset and nature reserve. South East Water enforces a blanket ban on unauthorized recreational drone flights to protect infrastructure and sensitive habitats.
• Operating an unmanned aircraft from the ground here without formal written consent constitutes trespassing on private utility and conservation land.

Strategic Priority & Infrastructure

• Arlington Reservoir is a vital water resource and an important Local Nature Reserve (LNR).
• Ground rules are maintained to prevent public safety hazards, avoid disturbance to the local bird populations (including overwintering wildfowl), and ensure operational security.

Operational Security Protocols

• Regular site patrols are carried out by South East Water staff and conservation wardens.
• 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.
• Persistent non-compliance or hazardous flying near operational assets will be reported to local authorities.

Permissions & Exceptions

• Ground permissions are unavailable for all recreational, amateur, and hobbyist drone flyers.
• Professional operators must contact South East Water well in advance to obtain formal permission, submit a detailed risk assessment, and provide valid CAA operational authorization and commercial public liability insurance.