Eastern Shore residents demand authorities do better with drone enforcement

Blair Davis says he was in the paddock of his West Lawrencetown, N.S., farm several years ago when he first heard a buzzing noise and looked up to see a drone hovering overhead. 

The Canadian Armed Forces veteran lives with post-traumatic stress disorder, so the feeling of being watched was unnerving. He reported the incident to RCMP and police spoke to a neighbour. 

"It didn't stop. It got worse," Davis said in an interview alongside his wife, Kim. 

On countless occasions, the couple has recorded video of flashing lights in the night sky that appear to be drones. The ongoing appearances above their property have left them begging authorities for help. 

"What else are these drones being used for at night other than to torment, torture and stalk," Kim Davis said. 

Drone rules 

In Canada, drones weighing between 250 grams and 25 kilograms must be registered with Transport Canada. The operator also has to have a drone pilot certificate and must fly the drone within sight and no higher than 120 metres.

Flying a drone in that size range near airports and other aircraft is prohibited without the right licence and permissions. West Lawrencetown, about 25 kilometres east of Halifax, is also included in a no-fly zone around the Canadian Armed Forces base in Shearwater, N.S. 

While Transport Canada is responsible for laws and regulations dealing with drone use, police can charge operators with voyeurism, mischief or creating a nuisance. Violations can result in fines or even jail time. 

Complex investigations 

Guillaume Tremblay, a spokesperson for Nova Scotia RCMP, said investigations alongside Transport Canada are complex. 

"If you look at remotely piloted aircraft, the person may not be within line of sight of the device itself. And that adds a layer of complexity in identifying who's actually operating the device," Tremblay said in an interview.

Neither Tremblay nor Transport Canada provided details about what equipment can be used to help with drone investigations. They also could not speak about the reports from Blair and Kim Davis. 

Tremblay said anyone concerned about drone use that is contravening federal rules should fill out an online form on Transport Canada's website. 

"However, if you believe there are criminal offences being committed, contact RCMP immediately," he said. 

"Gather some of the information if you can — you know, drone colour, drone identifying markers on it, anything you can provide to officers certainly would be a big help."

Low importance 

But the Davises have been doing that, taking countless photographs and videos, and said the issue is of low importance to authorities.

Kristie Wilcox, who lives on the same laneway, agrees. 

"It's awkwardly disturbing and it needs to be stopped," she said in an interview. 

All three believe they know who is operating the drone. 

"I want to be able to enjoy my life as peacefully and happily as possible," Wilcox said. "We have a great community here and we all want the same thing: peace, happiness, to be successful with our own businesses and helping one another." 

Peace bond

A three-year peace bond was issued against the person in May 2023 in relation to the Davis property. It prevents them from blocking the private lane, or using firearms or setting off explosives within five kilometres of the veteran's home. 

But the conditions do not mention the use of drones in the area.

"Nobody wants to take responsibility.… And yet we're here living this every night," said Blair Davis. 

"Now … if the mayor had drones flying over his house, there would have to be some action taken. But because I'm not as important, or that's the way I feel, that I'm not a high priority."