When do I need an OSC?
Drone pilots will need an OSC when wanting to operate outside the normal boundaries of a Standard Permission.
These operations include flying less than 50m from uninvolved people/properties; flying less than 50m horizontally of assemblies of people; operating more than 400ft above the surface; and conducting EVLOS (Extended Visual Line of Sight) or BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) missions.
UPDATE - APRIL 2025: Please note that the Operating Safety Case methodology has now been replaced by UK SORA. To find out more, click here.
Related Questions
SORA UK, what does this mean?
UK SORA is a risk-based method for complex Specific Category drone ops, including BVLOS flights.
What are the benefits of having a drone label C0, C1, C2, C3 or C4?
Starting from 1 January 2026, CAA drone labels (C0–C4) can ease restrictions, such as minimum distances from people.
What are the best drone apps and websites to help my fly my drone safely and legally?