Police have issued a fresh warning to drone operators after a report of one being flown over farmland, causing cattle to panic and flee.
The incident, which was reported to authorities recently, placed the livestock at risk of injury and could have harmed farmers working in the area.
With warmer weather encouraging more people to fly drones, police are reminding operators of their legal responsibilities.
“Regardless of the size of your drone, you must always fly safely and must not endanger any persons, property or aircraft. To do so is an offence,” a police spokesperson said.
For drones weighing more than 250g, additional rules apply. Operators must have landowner permission for take-off and landing, keep the drone in sight, avoid night flying, and stay below 400 feet.
Flying over or within 150 metres of residential, industrial, commercial or recreational areas is banned, as is flying within 50 metres of people and properties – reduced to 30 metres only during take-off and landing.
Flights within 5km of Isle of Man Airport are prohibited without permission, and drones cannot be flown over or near Isle of Man Prison in Jurby.
Using a drone to look into someone’s property “may constitute a criminal offence”, police added.
Violations can result in fines of up to £10,000 or five years in prison. During TT, Manx Grand Prix and Billown Circuit events, airspace restrictions are also in force.