Kite Flying Safety
Fly Safe Out There
We've been flying kites for over 35 years. In all that time, one thing hasn't changed: kiting is one of the most joyful things a person can do. But like anything worth doing, it deserves a little respect. These aren't rules for the sake of rules. They're the things we've learned from experience, and the things we'd tell anyone before their first flight.
Stay away from power lines. Full stop.
If your kite ever gets tangled in a line, let go. Don't touch the kite, don't touch the string. Step back, clear the area, and call your utility company. No kite is worth it.
And never fly in rain or a storm. A wet kite line conducts electricity. Thunder in the distance means it's time to pack up.
Check the weather before you go.
Most kites fly best in gentle to moderate winds, roughly 8 to 18 mph. That's when leaves are moving and small branches are swaying. If the trees are bending, it's too much. If you're fighting to keep control, bring it down.
Pay attention to what's upwind of you too. Buildings, tree lines, and hills create what we call "dirty wind" — turbulent, unpredictable air that makes kites behave in ways you don't expect. Give yourself clean air and clear space.
Before you head out, check the Kite Flyers' Weather Section for real-time conditions in your area.
Be good to the people around you.
Public parks and beaches are shared spaces, and we want kite flyers to stay welcome in them. Don't fly over or near people. A fast kite or a taut line can cause real injury. Ask spectators to stand behind you. Watch for trees, roads, and buildings on your approach. And be mindful of animals — kites can spook livestock, dogs, and nesting birds more than you'd expect.
Know the rules in Canadian airspace.
Under Canadian Aviation Regulation 602.45, you cannot fly a kite in a way that creates a hazard to aircraft. In practice, that means:
Stay at least 3 nautical miles (about 5.6 km) from any airport or heliport. Keep altitude under 300 feet above ground level. Check local bylaws too, because some municipalities have their own restrictions on where and how high you can fly.
Inspect your gear before every flight.
Check your spars, fabric, bridles, and lines before you launch. A frayed line or a loose connection you missed on the ground becomes a problem in the air. Knots matter more than people realize. A kite is only as secure as what's holding it to the line. Visit our Knot-Tying Guide if you want a refresher. The Larks Head is a good place to start.
Large kites and power kites need extra care.
Traction kites, sport kites, and large show kites are a different animal. Wear gloves. Anchor properly. Never leave one unattended during setup. And if you're new to power kiting, please get proper instruction before you attach yourself to anything. A harness without a quick-release safety system in the hands of someone who doesn't know what they're doing can end a day very quickly.
Take care of the field.
If a line breaks, wrap it up. Discarded kite string is a genuine hazard to birds and wildlife. Pack it out. The places where we get to fly are gifts, and it's on all of us to treat them that way.
We want you to have a great day out there. That's always been the point.
Fly a kite. Just for the health of it.