Can You Fly the DJI 2 Mini Anywhere?

The DJI Mini 2 may lack vital features such as obstacle avoidance and 4K/60 fps compared to its larger siblings.

In contrast to heavier DJI drones though, this one has the advantage of portability, allowing it to be flown in more places.

So the question is, can you fly the DJI Mini 2 anywhere at any time?

You can’t fly the DJI Mini 2 anywhere. However, its lightweight design allows it to be flown in many locations where other drones cannot. The Mini 2 weighs only 249g. Many flying and operation restrictions for larger UAVs do not apply to this drone.

In many states and countries, you do not need a license to fly the DJI Mini 2.

This article will center on the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom and whether you can fly the Mini 2 there.

I can’t say that these same principles apply elsewhere, but most of them do. So, let’s dive right into it.

Can you fly the DJI Mini 2 anywhere in the United States? #

You need a license to fly a drone larger than 250 grams in the United States, and even then, you can’t get too close to any structures or people.

The DJI Mini 2, however, has an entirely new backstory.

» MORE: DJI Mini 2 Review

If you’ve been flying drones for any length of time in the United States, you know that the laws regarding drones distinguish between their use for commercial purposes and fun or recreation.

The Federal Aviation Administration or FAA does not require the registration of a drone weighing less than 250 grams unless it’s used for commercial purposes per Part 107 rules.

When I weigh the DJI Mini 2, I get a range of figures, but they all seem to be around 240 grams.

DJI claims that with the propellers, battery, and micro SD card installed, the Mini 2 weighs a standard 242 grams. The drone is marked as 249 grams on its cover.

Avoid any mission that could endanger manned aircraft or ground-based civilians or property.

Any local, regional, or state legislation that applies to you must also be respected. Some municipalities, for instance, prohibit all drones, regardless of size, from city parks.

When flying your DJI Mini 2:

• Remember to respect the law and use common sense (however impolite that may sound, it’s got to be said).
• Observe DJI’s operational guidelines at all times.
• Always follow FAA rules.
• Keep your drone away from aircraft.
• Don’t fly it near vital infrastructure.
• Keep the drone at a safe distance from airports and helipads.

Can you fly the DJI Mini 2 over people in the United States? #

Yes, the DJI Mini 2 can fly over people.

According to the FAA, you can fly any drone weighing 250 grams or less, but it must have propeller protection.

The Remote ID rule will be fully implemented in October 2023, so you must ensure that your drone complies with the new Remote ID rule in the near future.

» MORE: Are DJI Drones Equipped with Remote ID?

Always use common sense, identify potential hazards, and take all necessary precautions to reduce any risks associated with the operation.

You need to know your surroundings, with an eye toward the presence of any nearby aircraft or other people, to do this successfully.

Flying the DJI Mini 2 anywhere in Canada #

According to Transport Canada (TC), the 900.06 Aviation Rule must be followed when piloting a drone weighing less than 250 grams.

Here’s what the rule says in full: “No person shall operate a remotely piloted aircraft system in such a reckless or negligent manner as to endanger or be likely to endanger aviation safety or the safety of any person.”

You should avoid flying near populated areas or buildings and stay clear of airspace where manned aircraft are operating.

Technically, you can fly near people or in controlled airspace, but remember that it’s illegal to endanger anyone or put manned aircraft in danger.

If you find yourself in a No-Fly Zone, remember to keep your drone at or below 100 feet in altitude.

When you doubt whether you’re allowed to take off with your DJI Mini 2, consult the Drone Pilot Canada app and the Drone Site Selection Tool.

Drones weighing less than 250 grams can be flown in Canada without first being registered. There is also no need to have a license to fly.

Keep in mind that if you add anything to your drone (like propeller guards) that brings the total weight to more than 250 grams, you will need to register it and, at the very least, obtain a Basic Pilot Certificate.

You can register your DJI Mini 2 online with TC Drone Portal for a one-time fee of $5 by selecting “drone make/model not listed.”

Flying the DJI Mini 2 in the United Kingdom #

In light of the UK’s new regulations on drone use, the DJI Mini 2 has emerged as a popular option for pilots who want to fly their aircraft closer to people and structures.

Without a CAA PFCO, you could not fly closer than 150 meters to a populated area under the previous rules. 

But now you can! This is a perfect choice for those wishing to conduct roof surveys in areas that would have previously required a CAA exemption for reduced distances.

With that said, the DJI Mini 2 can be flown in an open area without a pilot’s certificate in the United Kingdom. However, 400 feet is the highest that your drone can go.

You may not transport harmful items, and you may not lose or break any items. You can safely fly over bystanders, but not through a crowd of people who are actively participating in something such as an event. 

Due to its camera, the Mini 2 must be registered (NOT to be confused with a license), which will set you back about 9 pounds a year.

As of January 2023, the age requirement for registration will increase to 18 years old.

The Mini 2 currently has a minimum age of 12 to operate as of 2022, but that will almost certainly increase as new regulations take effect. To act as a direct supervisor of another remote pilot, you must be at least 16 years old.

The good news is that in the UK, you only need to read the manual to fly the DJI Mini 2.

In the same way, as in the United States, the Mini 2 must always remain in plain view. Although the new rules do not require the (EC)785/2004 insurance to fly a Mini for commercial purposes, they do need it if you intend to use your Mini for any paid flight.

» MORE: How to Become a Commercial Drone Pilot in the UK

If you’re only flying your drone for fun in the UK, you won’t need any insurance policy. Please note that the Mini 2 is not permitted for use in airports, national reserves, or any other restricted areas in the UK despite their light weight.

Can I rely upon the DJI Fly Safe Map to keep me safe and legal anywhere? #

The DJI Fly Safe Map does not include all NFZs and does not reflect the regulations in effect in every jurisdiction.

To determine whether you need permission to fly your DJI Mini 2, you should check with the appropriate authorities or visit the country’s official drone website or app.

If the DJI Fly Map has restricted your flight to a specific area, you should thoroughly scout the area before attempting to unlock the DJI drone.

Disclaimer: This information is based on the current FAA, TC, CAA, and European drone laws and may not apply to your jurisdiction or the location you are visiting.Before making large purchases or booking flights, you should always verify local regulations. As was pointed out in the comments, a Part 107 license is required in the United States for commercial use of the DJI Mini 2.If you intend to use your DJI Mini 2 for business purposes, you should check any licensing requirements in Canada and Europe.

Key takeaways #

Drones weighing less than 250 grams are legal to operate in many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and much of continental Europe.

It’s important to remember that it doesn’t matter how big or light your drone is; you should never endanger people or manned aircraft.

Keep out of no-fly zones and be mindful of private property, given that not everyone enjoys having a drone hovering above their head.

Don’t fly your drone if the visibility is less than 300–600 meters, if the wind speed is greater than 30 MPH, or if the temperature is lower than 0 degrees Celsius, as this could cause severe damage to your drone.

References:Canada Gazette (link)