The Guelph Police Service is committed to using technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its operations in serving the community. A remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) is a power-driven aircraft designated to fly without a human operator on board. It is a tool that can enhance police operations in a variety of scenarios including searches for missing persons, collision reconstruction, intelligence gathering, during tactical operations, and for evidence gathering processes.

The Guelph Police Service (GPS) RPAS is a DJI Matrice M30T. The M30T system includes high resolution RGB and thermal cameras, a laser rangefinder system, and dual speaker / spotlight payloads. The system has a 40+ minute flight time, 15km flight range, high wind resistance and a weatherproof rating.Pilot flying RPAS

The RPAS is operated only by members who have been issued an advanced flight operations pilot certificate (VLOS) by Transport Canada. Pilots are required to complete a minimum number of flying hours to maintain their proficiency. For more information about the use of the RPAS, please call us at 519-824-1212 and ask to speak with the Neighbourhood Services Field Support Staff Sergeant.

Situations when use of the RPAS might be beneficial are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and flight operations will only be conducted if a legal authority exists and/or judicial authorization has been obtained. The GPS has conducted a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) in accordance with the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario’s guidelines to ensure all privacy risks have been considered and appropriate actions have been taken to address those risks. 

  We are committed to protecting the privacy of individuals in the operation of the RPAS, and to ensuring that all collection, use, disclosure and retention of personal information is in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). 

The legal authority for collection of personal information by the RPAS system is found in Section 28(2) of MFIPPA.  Under this section, the government is permitted to collect personal information if the collection is used for the purposes of law enforcement. 

All individuals have a right to access their personal information and general information resulting from use of the RPAS.  If you have questions about making a request, please contact the Freedom of Information Office.

Status and flight updates for the RPAS are available on our X account @GPS_RPAS