Drone Rules for Draycote Water

Landowner Policy & Site Rules

• Drone operations—including launching, landing, or operating on the ground—are strictly prohibited across the Draycote Water site without formal authorization.
• The reservoir park, pathways, and shoreline visitor areas are private property owned and managed by Severn Trent Water.
• Operating a drone from the ground here without explicit prior consent from the water utility or site management constitutes trespassing on operational utility land.

Strategic Priority & Infrastructure

• Draycote Water is a critical utility asset and major supply reservoir for the Rugby and Warwickshire regions.
• Due to high volumes of public visitors, water sports activities, and the critical nature of the open drinking water asset, strict on-site management rules are enforced to protect infrastructure and ensure public safety.

Operational Security Protocols

• Regular land and perimeter checks are conducted by Severn Trent site staff, park wardens, and affiliated club authorities (e.g., Draycote Water Sailing Club).
• Any unauthorized drone operators identified operating from the ground will be approached, instructed to safely land their aircraft immediately, and requested to leave the property.
• On-site management maintains a zero-tolerance policy for persistent non-compliance or safety infractions near public tracks or visitor centers.

Permissions & Exceptions

• Ground permissions are entirely unavailable for recreational, hobbyist, or casual drone flyers.
• Exceptions are strictly reserved for commercial utility surveys, engineering asset inspections, or pre-approved media production.
• Professional pilots requiring access must contact Severn Trent Water directly to complete a formal filming/drone application, submit a detailed flight risk assessment, and provide proof of valid CAA operational authorization alongside commercial public liability insurance.